Chennai, Oct 31:
VK Sasikala on Friday said there would be no problem with efforts to reunite the AIADMK if the discussions continued in a positive manner. She also said leaders could earn a lasting place in people’s hearts only by undertaking constructive work for their welfare and not through publicity.
Speaking to reporters at Chennai airport, Sasikala said all Chief Ministers had traditionally participated in the Thevar Jayanthi celebrations at Pasumpon. She wondered why the present Chief Minister had not attended the event, adding that even the Vice-President and leaders of various political parties had visited the memorial.
Commenting on law and order, she said the Tamil Nadu police were on a par with the police in Scotland. Former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa had handled the police force effectively, she said, adding that several murders and robberies were now being reported. The police force remained the same, but those in power were responsible for ensuring that it functioned effectively, she added.
Asked about the possibility of the AIADMK’s reunification, Sasikala said, “Let us wait and see. Everyone is speaking positively about it, so there should not be any problem.” She said her remarks could be interpreted in different ways.
On comparisons between political leaders, she said it was up to individuals to decide whom they wished to compare. However, the people’s assessment of a leader depended on the work done for their welfare, she added.
Referring to former Chief Ministers MG Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa, Sasikala said both had earned a lasting place in people’s hearts through their welfare initiatives. MGR continued to enjoy a special status because of his contributions to the people, she said.
Sasikala recalled that the Jayalalithaa government had distributed goats and cows to beneficiaries, provided facilities to help poor children pursue their education and given laptops to students. Jayalalithaa had governed with the concern of a mother, she said, adding that leaders should follow a similar approach.
Stressing that anyone could enter politics, Sasikala said the ultimate decision rested with the people. Voters would judge political leaders based on how they governed and the work they did for the public, she added.
“Constructive work for the people will earn a leader recognition, but publicity-driven activities will not stand the test of time,” she said.