LONDON- The Asian Underclass Revolts

base to the Left. It just will not do in the Indian context, much less in the specific configuration of the consciousness of the masses in Tamil Nadu, to overlook the specifics of the transition mechanism as far as the movement of the masses is concerned. It is no use wishing that the masses would move in the 'normal' manner. As a matter of fact, the move from DMK to ADMK positions is precisely what is normal in Tamil Nadu, The skill required is that of understanding this normalcy and forging a link with it so as to make it a part of the more general and overriding trend of the democratic transition. This requires a complete understanding of both the potential as well as the limitations of the entire ADMK movement, particularly its leadership. This requires an approach that unites with, but by no means merges into the ADMK swing. Only if such an understanding is implemented, it is possible to make a dent in the Kamaraj mass base and to cut short the detour that the Congress leadership has imposed upon its organisation in the state.