DMK to skip INDIA bloc meeting on June 8, hits out at Congress
The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Thursday announced that it will not participate in the INDIA bloc meeting scheduled to be held in New Delhi on June 8, citing resentment among its cadre over what the party described as the Congress party’s “betrayal” following the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
In a statement, the DMK said the sentiments of party workers had been taken into consideration while deciding to stay away from the opposition alliance meeting. The party said its cadre remained deeply hurt by the Congress’ actions after the state elections and that it would therefore not attend a meeting in which the Congress is participating.
The June 8 meeting is expected to bring together several opposition parties under the INDIA bloc banner to discuss political developments and future strategy. Around 17 opposition parties are expected to attend the gathering in New Delhi.
Despite its decision to boycott the meeting, the DMK said it would continue to support opposition parties on issues concerning national welfare and would maintain its stand on matters related to democracy, secularism and federalism.
The announcement comes amid strained relations between the DMK and the Congress after political developments in Tamil Nadu following the Assembly elections. The Congress has not immediately responded to the DMK’s decision to skip the meeting.
