The Hindu : We are under constant threat: Kiruttinan kin

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Jun 13, 2003

Southern States

Southern States - Tamil Nadu

We are under constant threat: Kiruttinan kin

By S. Vijay Kumar

MADURAI JUNE 12. In a new twist in the Kiruttinan murder case, family members of the former DMK Minister today claimed that they were "under constant threat" from various quarters within the party.

"We have specific information that some people, including supporters of the former Tirupattur MLA, Rama. Sivaraman, are planning to kill us. Efforts are also on to drag the case and slow down investigation," T. Ramiah, younger brother of Kiruttinan, said here.

Mr. Ramiah, who was here to depose before Madura Sekharan, seventh judicial magistrate, in a three-hour in-camera proceeding, said he had sought an appointment with the Chief Minister, Jayalalithaa, to seek protection for his family members (including the kin of Kiruttinan). "We will also request her to ensure a fair investigation and bring the case to a speedy trial".

Reiterating that M.K. Azhagiri, elder son of the DMK president, M. Karunanidhi, and Mr. Rama Sivaraman, "were part of the conspiracy, with a political motive", Mr. Ramiah wondered why the police had not detained and charged the latter. However, "We are satisfied with the progress of the investigation."

Mr. Ramiah alleged that the high command was "trying to isolate" Kiruttinan's family as the cadres were no more visiting it at Kombukkaranendal. However, a majority of the DMK volunteers were dejected with Mr. Karunanidhi's reaction to the killing.

Expressing concern that M.K. Stalin, Chennai-based son of Mr. Karunanidhi, was also echoing the views of his father, Mr. Ramiah said Kiruttinan had served the party for five decades and remained a staunch supporter of Mr. Stalin till the end.

The murder caused "irreparable" damage to the party in southern districts as the cadres and the public lost faith in the frontline leaders. "A strong discontent is brewing among the party workers and more resignations will follow, condemning the high command's attitude," he said.

Asked what he expected from the DMK, Mr. Ramiah said, "We expected nothing, but a few words of consolation. It is too late for everything now."

The widow and a nephew of Kiruttinan are also likely to depose before the magistrate soon.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Southern States