One can read a host of comments on the results of the recent assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. The most powerful Dravidian party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam notwithstanding its shrewd head M Karunanidhi and a host of strong ministers, welfare schemes, freebies and money power have failed miserably in the hustings.

The devastating defeat, if not anything brought to light the basic Indian psyche of how the paternal affection and over indulgence on the children could bring calamities and downfalls in the public life of a leader. There can never be a second opinion about MK that he is an astute politician with a long experience in state and national levels. He was crafty enough to overthrow many of his seniors when the party head CN Annadurai died and later eliminate the popular leader MG Ramachandran and some years later another senior Vai Ko who became threat to his sons from inheriting his power. Later, he did not hesitate to induct his ambitious daughter Kanimozhi also into the political arena. In the past three years MK made all possible ways and included his sons, daughters, grand children and nephews into many fields of business like films, television, real estate etc., in Tamil Nadu using his political and muscle power.   

He won the by elections by distributing money through his elder son who functioned almost as an uncrowned king in down south and gloated over the unsavory methods. But, the severe and final blow came in the form of 2G Spectrum Scam by his confidante and young Union Telecom Minister, A Rasa. When the Scam came to light close on the heels several related corruption charges were also brought to light. Many skeletons tumbled down from the cupboards of Karunanidhi Ministry.

The great fall started and ended in a complete wash out in the assembly elections. The historic DMK today even lost its power to be the main opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

MK was all along defending his family members and their misdeeds using his quick repartee and nonchalant responses. His love for the family and its members super ceded the state and public interests at large.

The price he had paid today is historic and remarkable and will go down in the annals of Indian political history how over emphasis of family interests can bring ruins.