Stand on FDI in retail will be known later: Karunanidhi

CHENNAI: Keeping the Centre in suspense, DMK, a key ally of the UPA-led Congress coalition, today said its stand on FDI in retail would be known when the Bill is brought before Parliament. "The DMK stand will be known when the Bill is introduced," DMK chief M Karunanidhi told reporters.

He was asked what would be DMK's stand and whether it would support, if the Bill on FDI in retail sector was brought during the winter session of Parliament beginning November 22.

The DMK chief's remarks assume significance as it came a day after Finance Minister P Chidambaram met him and reportedly sought the DMK's support during the winter session, when a few important bills are slated to be introduced.

DMK, the second largest ally with 18 Lok Sabha MPs after the exit of Trinamool Congress, had earlier urged the Centre to reconsider its decision to allow FDI in retail sector, taking into consideration objections to the move from various quarters.

Karunanidhi had earlier said his party would support if the Opposition moved a resolution in Parliament against FDI in multi-brand retail sector.

While Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee has threatened a no-confidence motion, the left parties have decided to move motions under voting rules in both Houses of Parliament to reject government's decision on the issue.

The DMK chief said Chidambaram met him yesterday to greet him on the occasion of Diwali festival.