Rajinikanth for simultaneous polls, to sponsor school fees of boy who handed over abandoned Rs 50,000 to cops

Talking to the media outside his residence in Poes Garden, the 67-year-old, who recently got back from his shooting schedule, said, “These projects are important for the development and growth of the country as they will increase employment opportunities. However, it is up to the government to ensure that land owners are compensated and kept happy, and that farming lands are not affected too much.”

Rajinikanth also extended support to the Central government’s proposal of ‘One India. One Election’, saying that it would save time and money for political parties, “I think the simultaneous polls is a good idea to be welcomed. I hope the other parties realise the value of this and cooperate.”

He also stated that he would sponsor the school fees of seven-year-old Mohammed Yasin who had handed over the abandoned Rs 50,000 to the police. Yasin, a Class 2 student of Chinnasemur Panchayat Union School, found the money during the school interval on July 11 and gave it to his teacher.

Speaking to reporters on a host of issues on Sunday, Rajinikanth however didn’t elaborate on the plans for his political outfit. “Only with time, I will decide about contesting in the general elections,” he reiterated.

The actor-turned politician expressed happiness that Tamizharuvi Manian wants to join the Rajini Makkal Mandram, “He is someone who follows Kamarajar’s and Gandhian principles. I am thankful to him for his support,” he said.

Fielding several questions from reporters, he however avoided commenting on Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah’s view that there is a lot of corruption in Tamil Nadu. “It is Shah’s views and the media should ask him,” Rajinikanth replied.

Addressing the quality of education in the state, he stated that the education system in Tami Nadu is better than anywhere else in India. “The state government can develop it better, but yes, School Education Minister KA Sengottaiyan is doing a good job.”

He also welcomed the recently tabled Lokayukta Bill in the state, adding, “A retired judge should be appointed to oversee this, and it should function well.”