M.K. Alagiri’s supporters seek re-entry into DMK

DMK leader M.K. Stalin visits brother M.K. Alagiri, supporters seek readmission after over a decade, awaiting decision.

With DMK president and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin recently visiting his elder brother M.K. Alagiri’s house in Madurai after over a decade, the latter’s supporters have requested the leader to readmit them into the party.

Mr. Alagiri, the DMK’s former Madurai strongman and Union Minister, was expelled from the party by his father M. Karunanidhi over 10 years ago following a family feud. His supporters were also shown the door. Now, following the recent meeting between the brothers, they see a window of opportunity to revive their political careers.

Informed sources told The Hindu thatwhen Mr. Stalin called on Mr. Alagiri during his visit to Madurai in connection with the party’s general council meeting, the latter requested the Chief Minister to readmit his supporters. “I am not asking anything for myself. Allow my supporters to rejoin,” was the only request of Mr. Alagiri, the sources said.

Some of the supporters, including Mannan, Mubarak, and Gopinath, have already submitted a letter of apology to DMK high command and sought their re-entry into the party. “We are waiting for a call. It may happen soon. The party will be strengthened further in the South,” a supporter said.

Mr. Stalin is learnt to be examining the request. “No decision has been taken yet,” a source said.