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Puthiya Tamizhagam plans to merge with BSP

Special Correspondent

Efforts on to consolidate Dalit organisations: Krishnasamy

CHENNAI: The Puthiya Tamizhagam is considering a proposal to merge with the Bahujan Samaj Party, its founder-president K. Krishnasamy said here on Wednesday.

Dr. Krishnasamy told reporters that as the parties had a common agenda, they were keen on working together. Efforts were on to consolidate Dalit organisations. "Whether to retain our identity and work under one umbrella or to become part of one organisation is a matter that is being debated. I am holding discussions with my volunteers."

Asked whether he would talk to Viduthalai Chiruthaigal leader Thol. Thirmavalavan for forging a united front of Dalit organisations, Dr. Krishnasamy said now the focus was on bringing together all the organisations at the national level.

Separate electorate

On the outcome of the elections, he said it demonstrated the need for changes in the electoral system. He renewed the party's position of establishing the system of separate electorate under which Scheduled Castes alone were able to elect their nominees. For others, proportional representation should be followed. To highlight the issue, he would tour different parts of the country and mobilise public opinion. The party would hold meetings in all districts of the State from June 7.

Welcoming the State Government decision allowing qualified persons belonging to all castes to become temple priests, Dr. Krishnasamy said a proper mechanism should be evolved immediately for its early and smooth implementation.

Justifying the Centre's move to adopt 27 per cent reservation in institutions of higher education, he said it should make its position in such a way that the debate over the desirability of continuing the quota system should end.

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