DMDK leader, activists evicted from Tamil Nadu Assembly

Opposition Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) members, including their leader Vijayakanth, were on Wednesday evicted from Tamil Nadu Assembly after a fiery verbal exchange between him and Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.

Jayalalithaa later dubbed his conduct as "obnoxious" and regretted the tie-up between her All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party and the DMDK before last year's assembly polls.

The war of words reportedly erupted over the hike in bus fares and milk prices last year.

Jayalalithaa criticised Vijayakanth for his "lowly act" as he made some gestures at the treasury benches.

State Assembly Speaker D Jayakumar referred the behaviour of the opposition to the Privileges Committee.

"The behaviour of the opposition leader was obnoxious and it shows what happens if unqualified persons happen to reach top positions," said Jayalalithaa.

She said while she was not prepared for an alliance with DMDK, it was fortunate enough to strike a deal with AIADMK helping it to secure 29 seats and the status of the principal opposition party.

"I regret joining hands with them", she said.

Speaker Jayakumar later ordered the eviction of all DMDK members, saying their behaviour was not in line with the ethos of the House. (ANI)