Alagiri decision on new party in two months

DMK president M. Karunanidhi's eldest son M.K. Alagiri Monday said he would decide on floating a new party in two months' time.

Speaking to reporters here, Alagiri said he would discuss with his supporters and take a decision.

Jan 24, the DMK temporarily suspended Alagiri for creating confusion in the party ranks and criticising the disciplinary action taken against some colleagues for "anti-party activities".

Alagiri, 63, son of Karunanidhi, 89, is opposed to his brother M.K. Stalin, 61, being elected to the party's top post.

The Alagiri-Stalin rivalry has plagued the DMK for a long time, and Karunanidhi has managed to keep a fragile peace within the party.

Responding to a query on Alagiri's plans to launch a new party, Karunanidhi told reporters here: "This meeting is for announcing DMK's candidates for the general elections. All I can say is that do not ask me unnecessary questions that hurt me."

Prior to his suspension, Alagiri was the DMK's organising secretary for south zone. The post is still vacant.

DMK officials said the party is under the control of Stalin and Alagiri does not have any major say now after his supporters were also suspended for anti-party activities.

Alagiri has announced he is not seeking election to the Lok Sabha.