Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

DMK-PMK fallout

“Bad as a friend, worse as an enemy” — these words in the editorial “Falling out in Tamil Nadu” (June 19) appropriately sum up the attitude of the PMK and its leader, S. Ramadoss. Dr. Ramadoss made it a point to give pinpricks to the DMK-led government on a daily basis just to keep his party in the limelight. Now that the government is free from the PMK’s pressure, it can concentrate on development schemes for the rest of its term.

V.N. Gopal,

Chennai The editorial is right in pointing out that the PMK is keen on selecting a winning partner in every election. It appears that Dr. Ramadoss expects the AIADMK to fare better in the coming Lok Sabha election, which may take place in November-December 2008. Changing sides is deemed a diplomatic game in Tamil Nadu politics. But does it not amount to changing the political philosophy and principles too?

A.H. Hatheeb,

Nagore The snapping of ties between the DMK and the PMK is nothing but opportunistic politics. If the DMK could not stomach the PMK’s criticism, it should have severed its ties with the latter long ago. Similarly, if the PMK did not like the manner of the government’s functioning, it could have left the alliance much earlier. Both parties came together only because of political exigency.

N. Ramanathan,

Accra It is well known that there are no permanent friends or foes in politics. It is only power and opportunity which dictate the rules of the game. No coalition in India is formed on the basis of ideology. Only ministerial berths and a share in power lead to successful coalitions. The making and breaking of a coalition, therefore, should not create such a hue and cry.

V. Harine,

Chennai

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