Sunday, January 23 2005 16:15 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Chennai: The DMK (Dravida Munnetra Khazhagam) today (Jan 23, 2005) alleged large-scale corruption and malpractice in distribution of solatium and relief materials to Tsunami affected persons in Tamil Nadu.

Alleging that the State Government continued to ignore the demand by Opposition political parties for constitution of all party committees to monitor relief work, DMK president M Karunanidhi said if their demand was not conceded, a meeting of the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) partners would be convened to discuss the next course of action.

There had been reports of large-scale malpractices in the distribution of relief to Tsunami victims, he said, referring to Point Calimere, which comprised 616 families whereas according to records of relief provided, 667 families were said to have been given relief.

Similarly, in Palayar village, made up of 1150 families, funds had been drawn to help 1500 families, he alleged adding in Kallimedu village, rice meant for distribution to affected persons was handed over to a member of the AIADMK (All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Khazhagam).