In the backdrop of reports of a possible rapprochement between DMK President M Karunanidhi and his son and expelled South Zone Organising Secretary M K Alagiri, a close confidante of the Madurai-based leader called on the party patriarch.

Alagiri aide and Rajya Sabha member K P Ramalingam met Karunanidhi here recently and held discussions for about an hour.

Ramalingam described the meeting as 'usual' but expressed the hope that the issue regarding Alagiri, expelled early this year, would be resolved at the earliest. Asked if there was a possible move for rapprochement between the father and son, Ramalingam told PTI that the party's welfare was important.

"All in the party look forward to its well-being," he said without divulging further details when asked if the differences could be buried for party unity.