In a notable development, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Treasurer and Member of Parliament, TR Baalu, has issued a sagacious advisory to Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, urging him to tread carefully in his political journey.
Baalu’s counsel arises in the wake of a heated controversy ignited by Udhayanidhi’s previous comments, where he drew parallels between Sanatana Dharma and afflictions such as dengue and malaria, advocating for its eradication.
Speaking at the “Mupperum Vizha 2023” event on Monday, Baalu remarked, “The entire nation is apprehensive about the actions of the DMK Youth Wing Head, pondering what his next move might be.”
Emphasizing that Udhayanidhi primarily harbors concerns about his father, the DMK treasurer remarked, “He utters statements with the belief that he can manage the consequences later. Nonetheless, I caution him to bear in mind that it is his responsibility to ensure that the object he holds remains intact and unbroken.”
Baalu also underscored that leaders from the Opposition’s INDIA bloc initially responded to the distorted reports of Udhayanidhi’s statements, and only found solace upon being presented with accurate media coverage.
Furthermore, he warned Udhayanidhi to exercise prudence in his declarations, as they are susceptible to misinterpretation borne out of envy.
TR Baalu’s remarks come on a significant day when DMK party members convened to commemorate the birth anniversaries of revered figures like Kalaignar Karunanidhi, Perarignar Anna, and Periyar.
Earlier this month, Udhayanidhi, the progeny of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, made contentious remarks by equating Sanatana Dharma with “malaria” and “dengue” while advocating for its obliteration. The DMK minister argued that Sanatana Dharma perpetuated the caste system and discrimination.
“Rather than opposing Sanatana, it should be eradicated. The name Sanatana is from Sanskrit. It is against social justice and equality,” declared the minister, who further stoked the controversy by posting an image of a mosquito coil on social media.
Despite the ensuing nationwide political furor, Udhayanidhi stood by his words, asserting that his comments were inaccurately portrayed as an incitement to genocide.