Udhayanidhi Stalin Sanatana Dharma Controversy

Udhayanidhi Stalin, Leader of the Opposition in the India — Tamil Nadu Assembly and a India — Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MLA, reiterated his controversial remarks calling for the 'eradication' of Sanatana Dharma, claiming it divides people. This sparked immediate criticism from the India — Bharatiya Janata Party, with spokesperson C.R. Kesavan labeling it a 'toxic rant' and comparing Udhayanidhi Stalin to Rahul Gandhi. Udhayanidhi Stalin later clarified his statements, explaining that he intended to abolish the caste system that creates social divisions, not to oppose anyone's faith or temple worship. The India — Madras High Court had previously observed that his earlier remarks constituted 'hate speech' while quashing an FIR against India — Bharatiya Janata Party leader Amit Malviya. The controversy unfolded during the first Assembly session after the India — Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, led by Chief Minister Vijay, won the state elections. Udhayanidhi Stalin also praised Chief Minister Vijay for political civility and raised concerns about the national song 'Vande Mataram' being played before the India — Tamil Nadu state song at the swearing-in ceremony, advocating for the protection of state traditions. India — Bharatiya Janata Party leader Narayanan Thirupathy warned that the India — Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam would be 'completely eradicated' by the people if it continued to hurt religious sentiments.