PMK seeks implementation of Article 355 in Tamil Nadu

Implementation of the article will ensure the Centre have more control over the state

In the wake of protests following the jailing of AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa and eventual law and order situation in Tamil Nadu, PMK today sought implementation of Article 355 of the Constitution in the state, which would ensure the Centre have more control over the state.

"We want the implementation of Article 355 so that the Union government has a control of the law and order situation in the state and the Governor will have powers to control it," PMK founder S Ramadoss told reporters here.

Article 355 says, "It shall be the duty of the Union to protect every state against external aggression and internal disturbance and to ensure that the government of every state is carried on in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution."

Observing that pro-Jayalalithaa protests by AIADMK workers, including state ministers, MPs and MLAs were insulting the judges in Karnataka, he said, "State ministers Sampath, Valarmathi should be removed from their posts and contempt of court cases have to be filed against them."

On the case against Jayalalithaa, he said DMK General Secertary K Anbazhagan should file a petition against the appearance of Bhavani Singh as Special Public Prosecutor in the Supreme Court.

Contending that Jayalalithaa was being a shadow Chief Minister controlling the government from inside the prison, he sought amendments in the Representation of the People Act with three provisions.

"Once convicted in a case for six years, the person must lose his/her membership to any party for six years. Two, he/she should be stripped of his/her voting rights and three, the person should not be allowed to campaign during elections," Ramadoss added.

He also urged government to collect Rs 1,000 crore towards the damages caused by AIADMK workers to government buses and other public property.