Differences have emerged between Karunanidhi and son MK Stalin over the nomination of party spokesperson TKS Elangovan to the Rajya Sabha, reports The Times of India.

While Stalin was not taken into confidence over Elangovan’s nomination, the latter is said to have the support of both Karunanidhi and his daughter Kanimozhi.

“Stalin's choice was T R Baalu. There were also several other supporters in the queue. It was also his way of asserting himself and checking Kanimozhi's interference in party affairs,“ pointed out a senior leader, seeking anonymity.

“Stalin has put in a lot of hard work, but he is not able to reap the benefits,“ said a supporter in Coimbatore.

Karunanidhi spoke up for Stalin when he was seated at the back during Jayalalithaa’s swearing-in ceremony. However, Stalin did not react to the apparent snub when Jayalalithaa left the assembly as Karunanidhi was wheeled in for taking oath as MLA.

Following defeat in the assembly polls, the leadership role in the party has assumed significance. Both Karunanidhi and Stalin have their own set of loyalists who are keen to see them in the leadership position.