The Supreme Court of India has taken cognizance of remarks made by Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, issuing notices to both the Tamil Nadu government and the DMK leader. Udhayanidhi Stalin had made controversial comments, likening Sanatan Dharma to diseases and alleging it goes against principles of equality and social justice.
As reported by PTI, the apex court has initiated proceedings in response to Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments, where he expressed the view that Sanatan Dharma should be eradicated, comparing it to diseases such as coronavirus, malaria, and dengue fever. The controversial remarks were made during a speech at a gathering of the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association.
Udhayanidhi Stalin further stated, “Sanatan Dharma is a principle that divides people in the name of caste and religion.” He alleged that Sanatan Dharma restricted women’s freedom and cited historical practices such as Sati and child marriages.
The PIL filed by a Madras lawyer also seeks the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against the Chief Minister’s son.
The Supreme Court’s notice extends beyond Udhayanidhi Stalin, also including MP A Raja, MP Thirumavalavan, MP Su Venkatesan, Tamil Nadu DGP, Greater Chennai Police Commissioner, Union Home Ministry, Minister for Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowment Department PK Sekar Babu, Chairman of Tamil Nadu State Minorities Commission Peter Alphonse, and others.
Udhayanidhi Stalin remained defiant in his stance, reiterating his comments, and stating, “Whatever I said, I’ll repeat the same thing again and again…I included all the religions and not just Hindus…I spoke condemning the caste differences.”
The controversy stirred by Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments has ignited a political storm in Tamil Nadu, prompting a response from various quarters, including Union Ministers.
In response to the controversy, Union Minister Mahua Moitra criticized the comments, emphasizing the importance of respecting diverse beliefs. Meanwhile, Udhayanidhi Stalin highlighted his government’s efforts to promote women’s rights and financial independence.
News Summary:
- The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Tamil Nadu government and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin over his remarks likening Sanatan Dharma to diseases and alleging it goes against social justice.
- Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments have sparked a political controversy, with the Supreme Court also issuing notices to other political figures and authorities.
- Udhayanidhi Stalin remained defiant, reiterating his comments and emphasizing his government’s initiatives to promote women’s rights and financial independence.
- The controversy has prompted responses from Union Ministers and reignited the debate on religious tolerance and social justice in India.
