Tamil Nadu elections '06

The appeasement of electorate prior to elections has started. This must rank as a desperate measure of applying a layer of 'fake gold' over some rusted metal. Of the various schemes that are being intiated, in view of impending elections, the 'one light scheme' - whereby free electricity is provided to hutment dwellers living within 250sqkm - is typical of goverment action that administers a bandaid where brain surgery is required. Instead of addressing the bigger issue of 'housing allocation and slum clearance', the goverment concentrates on providing light, nevertheless keeping the beneficiaries in economic darkness.

Deputy Mayor of Chennai, Mr.Thiagarajan, may be absconding but he seems to have his finger very much on the pulse of the Chennai Corporation. His absence withstanding, this may have to be one of the bravest, dedicated attempts at fulfilling job responsibilities. Mr. Thiagarajan has threatened the Corporation Commisioner, M.P.Vijayakumar, with legal action for producing false reports. Has Mr.Thiagarajan, not in 'active duty' for more than three months now, explained his leave of absence? And does he have the authority to issue such legal warnings and direct proceedings from afar?

Update :
Mr. Thiagarajan could be disqualified if he does not attend the Council meetings on Wednesday and Thursday (2nd and 3rd Feb '06), The Hindu reports.