DMK chief M K Stalin on Tuesday criticised the Vijay-led TVK government and BJP after the Madras High Court directed the police to release Tamil Nadu Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin following
questioning in connection with the actor Trisha remark case.
In a post on X, Stalin accused the government of using the arrest to divert attention from the Cauvery issue and said the High Court’s order was a setback for what he described as the BJP government’s “fascist tendencies”.
‘Arrogance paves the way for destruction’
Beginning his statement, Stalin wrote, “Arrogance paves the way for destruction; persistent arrogance hastens destruction!”
He said the DMK-led protest in Thanjavur was organised to condemn what he described as the BJP government’s indifferent and arrogant approach towards securing Tamil Nadu’s rights over the Cauvery river and preventing the Mekedatu dam project.
According to Stalin, party workers, farmers and members of the public participated in the protest and expressed their concerns.
Defends Udhayanidhi’s speech
Stalin said Udhayanidhi, who addressed the rally, criticised the BJP government over the Cauvery issue and questioned its handling of farmers’ concerns.
He quoted Udhayanidhi as accusing the government of failing to secure Cauvery water, failing to stop the Mekedatu dam and neglecting the distress faced by farmers while focusing on issues related to a film.
Stalin alleged that the government had been unable to respond to those criticisms and instead shifted attention by arresting Udhayanidhi. He claimed the police arrived at Udhayanidhi’s residence, arrested him and took him to Thanjavur despite his position as Leader of the Opposition.
Questions police action
Stalin questioned why Udhayanidhi was taken to Thanjavur if the intention was only to question him. He also asked why multiple legal provisions were invoked if the police had no intention of seeking his custody.
Referring to the court proceedings, Stalin said the government’s counsel informed the High Court that Udhayanidhi would be released after questioning. He said the Madras High Court’s direction to release Udhayanidhi was a strong response to the government’s actions.
Alleges pattern of arrests
Stalin alleged that since assuming office, Chief Minister Vijay had repeatedly ordered arrests of those who criticised him, his ministers or the government.
He claimed action had been taken against Assembly members Anitha Radhakrishnan and Markandeyan, while students and young people protesting against the NEET examination were not allowed to demonstrate.
He also alleged that Chennai’s Marina Beach had been closed to protests, farmers’ demonstrations had been dismissed as politically motivated and permission had been denied for a anti-NEET vehicle rally.
Stalin thanked political leaders who condemned Udhayanidhi’s arrest but expressed disappointment with those who criticised him without verifying the facts. He maintained that Udhayanidhi had not made any obscene remarks or targeted anyone in his speech, adding that he would apologise immediately if he ever made an inappropriate remark.
Stalin concluded by demanding the immediate release of DMK workers arrested during protests across Tamil Nadu.
