Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam president M Karunanidhi on Monday said the Union government's announcement of plans to provide reservation to backward classes in institutions of higher learning was a welcome measure and described it as yet another victory for social justice.

TN: Mud-slinging on in full swing

"The government had already made it clear that it will be implemented only after the elections," he told newsmen in Chennai on Sunday evening.

Asked for comments on the government's proposed move as it comes at the time of elections, Karunanidhi said, "It was a matter between the Election Commission and those who made the announcement. We will not interfere. The Centre has only made an announcement."

Complete Coverage: Assembly Elections 2006

When his attention was drawn to Jayalalithaa's charge that the Opposition was planning to create major law and order problems in order to postpone the elections and facilitate imposition of President's rule, the DMK chief said it was 'unfair' on the part of a person holding a high office to make such a charge.

Be A Citizen Election Reporter

Karunanidhi said the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam supremo had now been 'rattled' by the intelligence reports that the DMK-led Democratic Progressive Alliance would get nearly 200 seats. A prominent English newspaper had conducted a survey a week ago, which came to similar conclusion. But the survey was not published.

Also Read: Rediff's Election Blog

"She is now searching for some excuses for the defeat that her party might face after the polls," he said.

Complete Coverage: Tamil Nadu Elections