Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Against popular spirit

The Congress' decision to provide outside support to the DMK Government in Tamil Nadu goes against the spirit of the people's verdict. Whether the decision is the result of the DMK's insistence or a quid pro quo arrangement for forming its government in Pondicherry, the Congress has frittered away a golden opportunity to have a say in the affairs of the State.

V. Subashini,
Srirangam, T.N.

* * *

It is ironical that the State Congress, which is part of a front that wanted an autocratic style of governance removed, was not aware of the high command's decision to extend unconditional support to the DMK Government ("Disappointment, frustration in Congress," May 13).

The observation "the State leaders are seldom consulted in the finalisation of an alliance, in the seat sharing or even the selection of candidates" reinforces the Congress' style of functioning.

C.S. Balasubramanian,
Chennai

* * *

But for the tireless, strenuous, energetic propaganda by all the DMK allies, including the Congress, the Left and the PMK, the DPA could not have defeated the AIADMK. In all fairness, the DMK, which enjoys power at the Centre, should have shared power with its allies in the State.

M. Surveswaran,
Chennai

* * *

It is evident that the DMK has exploited the rampant indiscipline and lack of leadership in the faction-ridden Congress. What is amazing is while unconditionally offering outside support, the Congress did not even suggest a common minimum programme. Genuine Congressmen cannot but feel a golden opportunity has been lost.

S. Meenakshisundaram,
Chennai

* * *

Congressmen had a desire to see the beginning of Kamaraj rule in the State. But it now appears they have conveniently forgotten their aim. By giving up a golden opportunity, they have failed to move towards realising their long-cherished dream.

V.K. Krishnaswamy,
Vellore, T.N.

* * *

The high command has chosen to ignore, for retaining the backing of 15 DMK MPs in the Lok Sabha, the legitimate aspirations of the Congressmen in Tamil Nadu. Neither the DMK nor the Congress would have won so many seats but for the alliance. The people's mandate is for a broad-based coalition, which would have been more representational and democratic.

I.S. Kanthimathinathan,
Tirunelveli, T.N.

* * *

With 15 MPs, the DMK wrested ministerial berths from the UPA at the Centre but with 34 MLAs, the Congress has acquiesced to be a sleeping partner in Tamil Nadu. With power, the DMK will bolster its sagging image and without power, the Congress will continue to be a palanquin-bearer.

V. Nantha Kumar,
Chennai

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