DMK slams NDA economic policy, may quit alliance

Continuing his tirade against the BJP and the Vajpayee Government’s economic policy, DMK president M. Karunanidhi today appeared to give the impression that the party was making the spadework for its eventual exit from the NDA. Terming the BJP’s criticism of the DMK as an attempt at belittling him, the DMK chief said responding to it would only further belittle the party and himself.

In a four-page statement, released to the media, he said what was stated in the DMK executive’s resolution, adopted on January 12, was in line with the criticism voiced by senior members of the NDA.

While senior leaders within the NDA such as George Fernandes of the Samata Party have expressed opposition to certain disinvestment policies, the DMK was the first ally to use its party forum to oppose the liberalisation policy in tune with the Opposition criticism.