'Wait and see...': Udhayanidhi on Pawan Kalyan's 'Sanatan Dharm' challenge
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has responded to Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan's recent challenge concerning his controversial "sanatan dharm is like malaria, dengue" remark. When asked about Kalyan's comments, the Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister said, "Let's wait and see... let's wait and see." To recall, Kalyan had issued a stern warning against equating Sanatan Dharma with a virus during a speech at the Tirupati temple.
Kalyan's challenge and DMK's response
Kalyan, the Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM, had said, "Don't say 'sanatan dharm' is like a virus and (you) will destroy (it). Whoever said this, let me tell you sir...you cannot wipe out 'sanatan dharm.' If anyone tries...then you will be wiped out." Although he did not mention Udhayanidhi by name, his reference was clear. In response to Kalyan's comments, DMK spokesperson Dr. Syed Hafeezullah stated that their party does not discuss any religion but continues to speak against caste atrocities.
DMK accuses BJP, TDP of using religion for political gains
Hafeezullah further accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and Kalyan of using religion and Hindu gods for political gains. He claimed that these parties are the real enemies and that Kalyan's statement was an attempt to divert attention from those affected by their policies. This exchange comes amid a political row over allegations of animal fat being used in ghee for making laddus at Tirupati temple.
Stalin's controversial remarks
Stalin's controversial remark about "sanatan dharm" being like a virus that needs to be eradicated was made at a public event in Chennai. He argued that the idea is regressive, promotes caste and gender divisions, and opposes equality and social justice. Despite immediate backlash, Udhayanidhi stood by his statement, clarifying that he was condemning caste-based differences within Indian society and not targeting any specific religion.
Supreme Court orders investigation into Tirupati laddu controversy
The Supreme Court has ordered a special team to investigate the allegations of animal fat in Tirupati laddoo ghee. The team will consist of two Central Bureau of Investigation officers, two Andhra Pradesh Police personnel, and a senior official from the Food Safety and Standards Authority. The court emphasized that it does not want "political drama" on this topic as it represents an important matter of faith for millions of devotees worldwide.
