2G latest chargesheet shocks DMK

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The inclusion of the name of his daughter Kanimozhi in the spectrum case has jolted chief minister M. Karunanidhi, when barely, a fortnight from now, another critical event is readying to unfold: the result of the state Assembly election in which archrival Jayalalithaa is stoutly challenging his bid to return to power.

The octogenarian had taken time on Monday morning to visit the new secretariat building and to even address the media. A woman scribe asked him about reports — it was only speculation then — whether members of his family were likely to be included in the CBI chargesheet and in that event, would the DMK snap ties with the Congress?

“A woman reporter should not ask such a heartless question,” the party head shot back.

That sort of explained the tense mood prevailing at the media conference, where his son and deputy chief minister M. K. Stalin and other top DMK functionaries were also present.

DMK sources said Mr Karunanidhi was confident that his wife Dayalu Ammal and daughter Kanimozhi would not figure in the chargesheet.

He had even planned to take his grandson to the Chennai-Pune IPL match in the evening.

However, he spent the rest of the day consulting lawyers and party lieutenants on what must be done, if the inclusion in the CBI chargesheet would also mean arrest. He decided to summon a high-level committee for a session on Wednesday.

Also, speculation was rife whether the DMK would snap ties with the Congress now.

“DMK has no option but to stay with the Congress as being part of the Centre is the only protection the party can have, especially if Jayalalithaa comes to power,” said political commentator Cho Ramaswamy.

Besides, Mr Karunanidhi chose to carry on with the Congress even after action was taken against A. Raja. If he pulls out of the UPA now, he would face the charge that he placed his family ahead of the party.

He would also badly need the Congress to be able to form a government if votes add up favourably for the DMK on May 13.