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Amidst a nationwide controversy triggered by his remarks about ‘Sanatan Dharma,’ DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of distorting his statement and spreading false information. He expressed his readiness to face any legal action that might be taken against him.
Speaking to reporters, Udhayanidhi Stalin stated, “I am prepared to deal with any legal cases they may file against me. The BJP seems concerned about the INDIA Alliance, and they are using this to divert attention. DMK’s policy is ‘One clan, one God.'”
He clarified that he had only criticised Sanatana Dharma and asserted that the BJP was misrepresenting his comments and spreading fake news about the matter.
Udhayanidhi Stalin’s Response: “Criticism of Sanatana Dharma, Not Advocating Violence”
Udhayanidhi Stalin reiterated his stance, clarifying that he had criticized Sanatana Dharma but did not promote any form of violence or harm. He emphasised his commitment to expressing his viewpoint continuously. Additionally, he questioned whether criticising a political party meant advocating violence against its members.
Stalin highlighted the difference between the principles of Sanatana Dharma, which suggests permanence and no change, and the Dravida model, which advocates change and equality. He accused the BJP of twisting his words and spreading false information.
BJP’s Reaction: Accusations and Concerns Over Anti-Hindu Strategy
In response to Udhayanidhi’s remarks, BJP President JP Nadda criticised the Tamil Nadu Minister and indirectly raised questions about the INDIA alliance’s approach, suggesting that it might employ anti-Hindu strategies in the upcoming elections.
In response to Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments, BJP President JP Nadda questioned whether the INDIA alliance intended to employ an “anti-Hindu strategy” in the upcoming elections. He accused the alliance of spreading hate and suggested that they had shown a consistent dislike for aspects related to the country.
Home Minister Amit Shah expressed concern over the recent remarks by leaders of the INDIA alliance, including DMK and Congress, which he saw as insulting ‘Sanatana Dharma.’ He criticised these statements as politically motivated and noted that this was not the first time such comments had been made against ‘Sanatana Dharma.’
BJP leader Sushil Modi strongly criticised Udhayanidhi Stalin’s statement, labelling it an “anti-national act.” He questioned the silence of prominent leaders within the INDIA alliance on this matter and expressed his deep concerns regarding the suggestion that ‘Sanatana Dharma should be abolished.”
Strong Condemnations and Calls for Detention
There are strong calls for the detention and imprisonment of Udhayanidhi Stalin, with accusations that he spreads hatred within the community. It’s emphasised that his comments are seen as an “anti-national act.” There’s concern that while Rahul Gandhi speaks about “Mohabbat ki dukaan” (a shop of love), a prominent leader of their alliance in Tamil Nadu is advocating the complete eradication of ‘Sanatana Dharma.’ This has raised questions about the silence of leaders within the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).
Leaders such as Rahul Gandhi, Nitish Kumar, Lalu Yadav, and others within the INDIA alliance are being called upon to express their agreement or disagreement with Udhayanidhi’s remarks. The silence of prominent Congress leaders on this issue has raised suspicions that they may align with Udhayanidhi’s statements.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy has strongly condemned the comments, emphasizing that Sanatan Dharma is not confined to a specific party, region, or religion; it’s a part of India’s heritage followed by people of various religions. Insulting it is seen as wrong and condemned. In response, DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovanis highlighted that the ruling party in Tamil Nadu is working for the well–being of the majority of Hindus in the country, emphasising their commitment to the community.
