Speculations over LG post to Duraisamy now talking point in DMK

Chennai

A few disgruntled second rung leaders of DMK, have been ‘influenced’ by the speculation about the BJP high command planning lofty elevation for Duraisamy. The unconfirmed reports about the BJP leadership considering a lieutenant governor like elevation was a tad too farfetched even by the State’s political standards notwithstanding, but the speculation had kept tongues wagging in Anna Arivalayam in the days that followed the defection.

However, the poaching tactics of BJP is something the DMK cannot afford to ignore forever as information trickling out of Kamalalayam suggests that Duraisamy’s defection was not just a payback for BT Arasakumar switching camps. It is understood to be a part of an elaborate plan of the saffron party to blunt the attack of the third largest Parliamentary party DMK, which also happens to be one of the strongest critics of the Narendra Modi regime.

“They might attempt to lure a few more using the power at the Centre. They might offer lucrative posts. If one or two fall for it, we can only wish them good future. We will not be at loss. Everyone knows that DMK is in pole position to form government next year. Only a political ignoramus would jump ship for temporary elevation now,” remarked a DMK leader, dismissing unconfirmed reports about the BJP targeting ideologically committed DMK leaders as vain attempt of a desperate state BJP unit.

“Indeed, rumours about governor post for him (Duraisamy) will rouse curiosity. So, one or two might have discussed it out of interest. Also, the BJP national leaders will not reward anyone without return. Otherwise, even members of fledgling parties know what would be one’s prospects in Tamil Nadu BJP,” the leader added.

DMK president MK Stalin was understood to have considered a meeting to offset the influence of deputy general secretary’s exit, but it was overshadowed by the arrest of RS Bharathi.