New Delhi (Agency): In the midst of a growing controversy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin defended his son and cabinet minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, for his comments on Sanatan Dharma. Stalin accused the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of misleading the public by distorting Udhayanidhi’s words. The issue has sparked a heated debate across the nation.
Udhayanidhi Stalin had made remarks against what he saw as “inhuman principles” in Sanatan Dharma, particularly those that discriminate against Scheduled Castes, tribals, and women. He did not call for the “genocide” of people with Sanatan thoughts, as was wrongly spread, said Stalin. “Lies were spread,” Stalin emphasized, pointing out that Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh also did not retract their statements after Udhayanidhi’s denial.
M. K. Stalin questioned Prime Minister Modi’s role in the controversy, saying, “So, is the Prime Minister speaking unaware of the lies spread about Udhayanidhi, or does he do so knowingly?” He also accused Modi and the BJP of trying to divert attention from other pressing issues, like violence in Manipur or irregularities pointed out in a CAG report, to target the INDIA alliance—an opposition bloc against the BJP.
Stalin affirmed that the DMK’s principles are focused on uplifting marginalized communities and said that the government in Tamil Nadu has enabled individuals of all castes to become temple priests. “If the BJP believes they can tarnish the reputation of a longstanding party like the DMK, they will find themselves sinking in that quicksand,” Stalin warned.
Stalin’s statement comes after Prime Minister Modi urged his Council of Ministers to expose parties and leaders who make such statements against Sanatan Dharma, emphasizing its enduring qualities.
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between the BJP and its opposition, especially in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, where the DMK holds power. It raises questions on whether political parties are genuinely concerned about religious and social issues or are using them as tools for political advantage.
