Chennai, Sep 4 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Monday promised full backing of the DMK allies in the state to the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government on its reservation policy.

"Your battle is like Arjuna's battle," the DMK patriarch told Human Resource Development Minister Arjun Singh, alluding to the mythical Hindu hero Arjuna who had to fight relatives for the cause of right and justice.

"I will be your Krishna," Karunanidhi said, extending full backing to the UPA government's programme by its allies.

Both Singh and Karunanidhi were sharing the same platform during the celebrations to mark the 150th anniversary of the University of Madras here.

Singh is steering the government's plan for an additional 27 percent reservation for students of other backward classes in higher educational institutions, which has faced opposition from various quarters.

The PMK, a member of the Manmohan Singh government in New Delhi, wants implementation of the quota at one go and is unhappy with Singh's plans to stagger the execution over several years.

"The cabinet has taken its decision and all parties in the UPA government have accepted it," Singh said.

"We have introduced the bill (in parliament) on the basis of the decision taken at the cabinet meeting," he said, adding: "Karunanidhi is aware of what is happening. His stand on the issue remains the same."