DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) leader and Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin’s recent remarks about Sanatan Dharma have ignited a political storm and garnered mixed reactions. During an address at a meet of the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association, Udhayanidhi Stalin criticized Sanatan Dharma, alleging that it is against social justice and equality. He likened it to a principle that divides people on the basis of caste and religion. He stated that the term “Sanatan” means eternal and unchanging, and he claimed that it has contributed to caste-based divisions in society.
In response to the controversy surrounding his remarks, Udhayanidhi Stalin remained defiant and reiterated his stance. He clarified that he included all religions in his criticism and spoke out against caste differences. He defended his statements, stating that he is the voice of the oppressed and marginalized people who suffer due to Sanatan Dharma.
Udhayanidhi Stalin compared Sanatan Dharma to diseases like COVID-19, dengue, and malaria, asserting that it should not be opposed but eradicated. He emphasized that uprooting Sanatan Dharma is essential to uphold humanity and human equality.
In a tweet, Udhayanidhi Stalin reaffirmed his commitment to his words and expressed readiness to present extensive writings by prominent figures like Periyar and Ambedkar, who have conducted research on Sanatan Dharma’s impact on society.
He mentioned that his late father, former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, had taken steps to promote equality by establishing equality neighborhoods (Samathuvapuram) where people from all communities lived together.
The controversy over Udhayanidhi Stalin’s remarks has polarized opinions, with some supporting his critique of Sanatan Dharma’s alleged role in perpetuating social inequalities, while others have criticized his statements as offensive and divisive.
Udhayanidhi Stalin concluded his speech by expressing the goal of winning all 39 Parliamentary constituencies in Tamil Nadu and the one segment in Puducherry in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, with the aim of defeating Sanatan Dharma and promoting the Dravidian ideology.
The controversy surrounding Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments highlights the sensitive nature of discussions related to religion, caste, and social justice in India’s political landscape.