‘I am Kalaignar’s grandson’: Udhayanidhi won’t apologize for Sanatana remark

Udhayanidhi Stalin has refused to apologise for his controversial remarks against Sanatana Dharma made over a year ago and claimed that his statements were distorted to give them a wrong meaning.

The Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister, speaking at a public event in Dindigul, clarified that he his remarks alluded to ending oppressive practices, especially against women. Referring to his political lineage, the DMK leader said as the grandson of former chief minister “Kalaignar” Karunanidhi, he would stand by his words.

He added that he had “also mentioned the principles” of Periyar, Perarignar, and Karunanidhi. “But my statements were distorted and I have been sued in several courts across India. I was asked to apologize in court, but I refused. What I said is said. I am Kalaignar’s grandson, and I will not apologize for anything. …Our Dravidian model government is a shining example for other states,” he said.

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Tamil identity

Playing up his party’s focus on Tamil identity, Udhayanidhi encouraged couples in the state to come up with traditional Tamil names for their children. He also voiced concerns about Hindi imposition in the state, particularly by altering the educational policy and the state’s anthem.

“They couldn’t do it directly. That’s why they are omitting a few words from the Tamil Thaai Vaazthu (state anthem). They are trying to impose Hindi through the new education policy. But they have failed. Someone even tried to change the name of the state but failed as people objected,” he said.

“Now some are talking about omitting the word ‘Dravidam’ from Tamil Thaai Vaazthu. As long as the last cadre of DMK is alive, the last Tamilan is alive, no one can even touch Tamil, Tamil Nadu and Dravidam,” he added.