THANJAVUR (TAMIL NADU): DMK leader MK Stalin has hinted at adopting legal means and mobilising people to “topple” the K Palaniswami-led AIADMK government in case Tamil Nadu Governor Vidyasagar Rao does not order for a floor test within a specified time-frame.
In reference to the ongoing revolt of the 19 AIADMK MLAs owing allegiance to party's sidelined deputy chief TTV Dhinakaran against Palaniswami, Stalin said the government was now short of the required majority of 117 MLAs in the 234-member House. The CM now only had the support of 109 MLAs, he said. The Leader of the Opposition said he himself could lead the delegation this time. “When the Leader of Opposition seeks (appointment) it has to be given. In the event of it being given, we are going to apprise (Rao) of the prevailing issues and urge him to convene the Assembly and give an opportunity to prove the (Chief Minister's) majority,” Stalin said.
“While making the plea, we are also going to fix a time frame. If the Governor doesn't take steps within the time, in the next step as part of toppling this government... not just (by adopting) legal means but by also mobilising people. Our struggle will not relent till this government is brought down,” he added. Stalin said the state was in ruins. “The state is in ruins. Law and order situation is deteriorating. Farmers are facing untold miseries,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dhinakaran during his meeting with the Governor, sought the removal of CM and his deputy O Panneerselvam from their posts. He indicated that he didn't want the state government to fall. “It is evident he (Palaniswami) has no majority. Therefore, he should be asked (by the governor) to prove majority,” Dhinakaran told reporters outside his residence, after the meeting. He said that he had sought “action” on the demand of his camp MLAs, who had earlier told the governor that they had lost confidence in the chief minister and that he should be removed.
