Kamal Haasan, the renowned actor and president of Makkal Needhi Maiam, has weighed in on the Sanatana Dharma controversy ignited by Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin’s recent statements. Haasan firmly asserted that Udhayanidhi is entitled to his views and urged those in disagreement to engage in constructive discussions rather than resorting to violence, legal threats, or distortion of words for political gain.
“Udhayanidhi is entitled to his views on Sanatana. If anyone disagrees with his viewpoint, it is important to engage in a discussion based on the merits of Sanatana, instead of resorting to threats of violence, legal intimidation tactics, or distorting Udhayanidhi’s words to evoke emotional responses for narrow political gains,” Haasan remarked.
He emphasized the essence of a true democracy, highlighting that citizens should have the liberty to express dissent and participate in ongoing dialogues. Haasan stated, “History has repeatedly taught us that asking the right questions has led to important answers and contributed to our development as a better society.”
Haasan further underlined Tamil Nadu’s tradition of providing a safe space for healthy debates and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusivity, equality, and progress. He called for embracing constructive discussions as a means to build a harmonious and inclusive society.
The controversy emerged when an FIR was filed in Uttar Pradesh’s Rampur against Udhayanidhi Stalin and Priyank Kharge, son of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, for allegedly hurting religious sentiments. Udhayanidhi Stalin had suggested that Sanatana Dharma is incompatible with the concept of social justice and should be “eliminated,” drawing sharp criticism from various quarters, including BJP leaders and religious figures.
Udhayanidhi’s comments sparked a significant backlash, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing him of making a “genocidal call” and seers criticizing his remarks.
