M.KARUNANITHI

M. KARUNANITHI

After the death of Annadurai, M. Karunanithi assumed power as the chief minister of Tamilnadu. He happened to be one among the famous administrators who ruled over independent Tamil land. Highly fascinated by DMK party Karunanithi kindled an awakening among the Tamil people through his speeches and writings. He has drawn several constructive schemes for the growth of Tamil language and the uplift of socially backward people.

Growth of Tamil language:

            DMK administration gave priority to the growth of Tamil language. Karunanith convened the second world Tamil Conference at . With the view to reduce the domination of English language places were adorned with Tamil names instead of English names. Preciously, state was changed to “Tamil Nadu”. In continuation of this Tamil language was given high priority in governemtn offices, letter correspondence and preparation of files. In schools and colleges Tamil language had become the medium of instructions. Apart from this a separate portfolio of Ministry was constituted for the growth of Tamil language.

Beautifying the :
            The credit goes Karunanithi for the present beautiful appearance of city. Steps were taken to reduce the unpleasant odor emitted by . Replenishing the banks of Koovam with concrete slabs was done and its depth was increased and even boating was started in it. In additions to this several sophisticated buildings were construction. The present secretariat buildings inside St. George Fort is a typical example of this construction. As far as roads were concerned, in addition to the new roads old roads were expanded and beautified.

Nationalization of Transportation:

            During the time DMK administration several steps were taken to reform transport. Te department was nationalized taking to reform transport. The department was nationalized taking it up from the private owners. For administrative conveniences the transport department was divided into several Corporation known to by Pallavan, Cholan, Pandyan, Cheran, Kattabomman, Thiruvalluvar etc. as a result of this, the revenue of the government increased, but the strikes were reduced considerably. In this second phase of administration the various transport corporations were amalgamated into one Tamilnadu State Transport Corporation, as a result of the communal riots that broke out in some places.

Giving Importance to Historically Important Places:

            Historically, important places were given preference during the reign of DMK, Kanchipuram, the capital of Palavas was beautified. An art gallery was built in the historically important Puhar. A monument including as statue was erected at Panchalamkurichi in memory of early freedom fighter Kattapoman. A of was raised at in the shape of the chariot found at Thiruvarur.

Growth of Education:

            Development in the field of education was duly considered at the time of DMK rule. With the establishment of schools in every nook and corner of Tamilnadu, the number of schools increased. Colleges were opened in important Taluks. Permission to start colleges in private sector was lavishly given. As a result of this there has been a considerable increase in the number of schools, colleges, polytechnics and engineering colleges as well as universities.

Growth of Agriculture:

            The DMK government showed much interest towards the growth of agriculture. Training centers were started in villages to give training in effective cultivation to peasants. Pesticides and composed manures were distributed to the peasants in a large scale. New types of seeds and seedlings were introduced. Electrification of pump sets used for cultivation was done in lakhs. As a result of this, there is visible, an unbelievable increase in the agriculture produces. Moreover, peasants were redeemed from the cheating of the brokers by making arrangements to control the price of the agricultural produce and to implement direct purchase of government from the peasants.

Social Welfare Schemes:

            Several people welfare schemes were introduced by Karunanith to uplift the life of the downtrodden in the society. Among these Kudichai mattu Variyam (Slum Clearance Board), Veetuvasathi Variyam (Housing Development Board), Kudineer Vadikal Variyam (PWD) was popular. Further more, steps were taken to improve the life and economic condition of hill tribes, oriental tribes as well as beggars.  Mixed marriages were encouraged. Giving the right to become the priest of a temple to those who were well versed in Vedas irrespective of caste and creed was also introduced. Preference was given to chant mantras in Tamil. The damaged chariot of the was repaired by DMK government and made fit for use again.

Independence Day Celebration:

            Until DMK had come to power the national flag was used to be hoisted by the Governor during Independence day and entrusted the responsibility of hosting flag at the state secretariat with the Chief Minister, elected by the people. As a result of this, flag hoisting was done by the state CMs during independence and republic days.

Dissolving the Government:

            During the emergency well organized DMK regime was dissolved by the central government in 1976. This act of the central government was severely opposed by the people of Tamilnadu and some other states. The indomitable DMK party did not loose heart by this action. Instead it involved itself into propagating their doctrines putting forth their people welfare schemes before the people. The sympathy wave caused by the death of both Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi acted contrary to the efforts of DMK party. Still with its persistent efforts DMK was able to conquer the power for the second time.

Criticism of Opposition Party:

            The opposition parties criticized DMK party vehemently saying that it has given preference to the opening of statues, encouraging the bribery, demoralizing the law and order and the implementing Verranam scheme. But DMK boldly withstood all these criticism. In spite of all these opposition and criticism DMK could capture power in coalition with T.M.C. This showed the popularity of DMK among the people of Tamilnadu.

            Through his eloquent speeches and efficient administrative capacity Karunanithi held an undiminising place in the hearts of Tamil people and he leads Tamilnadu through the path of developments as a result of the implementation of people welfare schemes. Holding an integral part in the “United Front”, Karunanithi rules Tamilnadu with the support of T.M.C.