Chennai: In the wake of recent controversy surrounding remarks made by Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin regarding Sanatana Dharma, Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister and prominent DMK leader, Sekar Babu, has extended a warm welcome to all Hindus and expressed the party’s support for followers of Sanatana Dharma.
Minister Sekar Babu clarified, “We do not oppose those who adhere to Sanatana Dharma. However, certain principles within it, such as the restriction on women’s education, ‘sati pratha,’ and ‘kula kalvi,’ are not in line with progressiveness. Our stance is rooted in the belief that there should be no divisions among people, and we are committed to eradicating untouchability. As these aspects are mentioned within Sanatana Dharma, we stand against them.” He further emphasized that the DMK wholeheartedly welcomes Hindus.
Addressing Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Annamalai’s recent comments on the Sanatana debate, Minister Sekar Babu remarked, “He is speaking without a sense of understanding and has only latched onto the Sanatana debate because he has nothing else to criticize regarding the governance of the state. His claims about women practicing ‘sati’ to protect their chastity are confused. He appears to be struggling to comprehend how to ensure his party’s success in Tamil Nadu.”
Minister Sekar Babu also highlighted the DMK’s inclusive governance, citing the recent certification of 93 priests from diverse castes, including three women.
These statements by Minister Sekar Babu come in the aftermath of an FIR filed against Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin by the Mira Road Police in Mumbai following complaints about his remarks on Sanatana Dharma. Udhayanidhi Stalin had previously attributed division and discrimination among people to Sanatana Dharma and called for its eradication.
