MK a state assembly member for record 12th time

CHENNAI: Former chief minister and DMK president M Karunanidhi on Monday became the member of the Tamil Nadu State Assembly for a record 12th time. However, in the present political scenario, he is unlikely to actively participate in the House proceedings.“Puthiya Sabhanayagarukku Vazhthukkal! (My greetings to the new Speaker), he said with his inimitable smile when he entered Assembly Speaker D Jayakumar’s chamber. The Speaker reciprocated with folded hands. DMK Legislative Party leader M K Stalin and other leaders shook hands with Jayakumar and exchanged greetings. Karunanidhi handed over the certificate of election issued by the Returning Officer of Tiruvarur Assembly constituency and took the oath according to his conscience. His party colleague Durai Murugan followed suit. DMK general secretary K Anbazhagan and other leaders such as Arcot N Veerasamy and K Ponmudy offered shawls to Karunanidhi.As mediapersons crowded the small chamber, a few DMK men waited at main entrance to the Speaker’s chamber. When the media asked Karunanidhi about the floor strategy of DMK members, he quipped: “koorndhu kavaniyungal” (watch us keenly).