In a recent development that has sparked much debate, Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has made a resolute statement regarding his earlier comments on Sanatana Dharma. After a pointed observation by the Madras High Court regarding the police's inaction over his remarks, Stalin remained steadfast in his stance.

The court's censure came after Stalin's contentious analogy where he likened 'Sanatana Dharma' to diseases like "dengue" and "malaria," which drew sharp criticism and called into question the role of public discourse in discussing religious ideologies. The High Court's remark highlighted a crucial aspect of democratic societies, emphasizing that "no individual has the right to promote divisive ideas or the abolition of any ideology."

Following the judicial scrutiny, Stalin has reiterated his position, asserting that his previous comments were not out of line. "I haven't said anything wrong," he declared, showcasing his readiness to confront any legal repercussions that might arise from his contentious comparison.

This episode raises important questions about the boundaries of political speech and the responsibilities of public figures in shaping societal narratives. The unfolding situation will undoubtedly be observed closely as it touches upon the delicate balance between freedom of expression and respect for diverse beliefs.

Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK leader, has remained unyielding in his critique of Sanatana Dharma, affirming his readiness to address the issue within the legal framework. His unwavering stance follows criticism from various quarters and the Madras High Court's remarks on police inaction over his and PK Sekar Babu's earlier comments.

"I haven't said anything wrong. What I said was right and I'll face it legally... I will not change my statement. I have spoken my ideology," stated Stalin, expressing a steadfast adherence to his viewpoint. He draws parallels with the thoughts expressed by social reformers like Ambedkar, Periyar, and Thirumavalavan, asserting that his expressions are within the ideological frameworks established by these figures. "But being a human is more important," he added, signifying the primacy of humanity over his roles in public office.

Continuing his discourse on Sanatana Dharma, Stalin emphasized the long-standing nature of his opposition to it, as opposed to the relatively recent challenges posed by NEET examinations. "It (Sanatana) is a several hundred years old issue, we shall oppose it forever," he declared, positioning his stance as one that is consistent and enduring.

In a notable address in September, Stalin had made a strong call for the eradication of Sanatana Dharma, labeling it as antithetical to the principles of social justice and equality. He likened the issue to combating diseases, suggesting that certain challenges cannot be merely opposed but must be eradicated. "That's how we have to eradicate Sanatana," he emphasized, suggesting a radical approach akin to the measures taken to eliminate public health crises.

Stalin, who serves as the minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, contextualized his argument within the linguistic origins of the term 'Sanatana', which is derived from Sanskrit, and criticized it for being incongruent with the ideals of social justice and equality.

These statements have stirred considerable discussion on the nature of political rhetoric and its impact on the social fabric, highlighting the ongoing tension between freedom of speech and the sensitivities surrounding religious and ideological beliefs in India.

High Court Judge Calls Out Police Inaction on Controversial 'Sanatana Dharma' Statements

The recent statements by Udhayanidhi Stalin on 'Sanatana Dharma' have not only spurred legal debates but also political backlash. Amit Malviya, the BJP's IT cell head, has offered a grave comparison, suggesting that "Stalin's statement was 'eerily similar' to Hitler's views about Jews." This comparison by a member of the ruling party implies a stark and serious perception of Stalin's comments, aligning them with historical narratives of intolerance.

Amidst the political reverberations, the judiciary has also weighed in. The Madras High Court's Justice G. Jayachandran has observed what he describes as a "Dereliction Of Duty" by the Tamil Nadu police for not acting against Stalin and Minister P.K. Sekarbabu after their participation in a conference that openly discussed the eradication of Sanatana Dharma.

Justice Jayachandran, in his non-binding remarks, pointed out the lack of action taken by the police in response to the conference, which took place in Chennai on 2 September 2023. "Given the police’s inaction against those making inflammatory speeches to eradicate Sanatana Dharma, the petitioner is now seeking permission to organize a meeting aimed at countering the Dravidian ideology," the judge stated, indicating a sense of judicial frustration at the lack of enforcement of laws that govern public speech and assembly.

This judicial note was made while dismissing a plea brought forward by Magesh Karthikeyan from Thiruverkadu in Chennai, signaling the complexity of balancing freedom of speech with the need to maintain public order and respect for all belief systems. The unfolding scenario underscores the ongoing tension between various ideologies and the role of law enforcement and the judiciary in addressing such divisive issues within the framework of the law.

Madras High Court Judge Denounces Police Inaction and Calls for Responsible Speech

In the ongoing discourse surrounding the 'Sanatana Dharma' controversy, Justice G. Jayachandran of the Madras High Court delivered a stark admonition regarding the role of both law enforcement and public figures. "No one can expect courts to aid them to propagate ideas to create ill-will among the public," he emphasized, highlighting a failure on the part of the police to respond to what he considered a serious lapse in duty. His criticism was directed at the lack of police action despite the involvement of ruling party members and ministers in a meeting with an agenda to eradicate Sanatana Dharma.

Justice Jayachandran also expressed concern over the potential societal impact, indicating that "Acceding to the petitioner’s request would likely lead to further disruptions in the peace and tranquility of the public." This comment reflects a judicial preference for maintaining social harmony over supporting events that might intensify existing tensions.

In a decisive rejection of the petitioner's claim that holding a meeting against Dravidian ideology was a fundamental right, Justice Jayachandran firmly stated, "No person in this country can have a right to propagate divisive ideas and conduct a meeting to abolish or eradicate any ideology." He underscored the essence of India's identity as a nation that cherishes the coexistence of diverse ideologies.

The judge went further to elucidate the responsibilities of individuals in positions of power, arguing that they should be wary of the divisive potential of their speech. He called upon those in authority to act responsibly, avoiding the propagation of ideas that could segregate people based on ideology, caste, or religion. Justice Jayachandran urged public figures to redirect their focus towards combating societal ills such as substance abuse, corruption, untouchability, and other social evils, which pose significant challenges to the nation's well-being.

The Sanatana Dharma Controversy: A Conference Sparks Widespread Debate

The "Eradicate Sanatana Conference" organized by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association has ignited a heated controversy with its title and theme. Held on September 2, 2023, at Kamarajar Arangam in Teynampet, Chennai, the conference has drawn attention to the discussion around Sanatana Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism, and its place in contemporary society.

Udhayanidhi Stalin, the son of DMK President and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, and a serving minister in his father's cabinet, was a notable attendee at the event. His presence, alongside Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister PK Sekarbabu, has been a source of irony and contention, given the aims of the conference.

During the "Eradicate Sanatan Conclave," Udhayanidhi Stalin made remarks that underscored his endorsement of the event's objective, saying, "The title of this conference has been excellently coined. You’ve named it as ‘Abolish Sanatanam Conference’ and not ‘Oppose Sanatanam Conference’, so my best wishes to that.” His words, affirming the conference's nomenclature, suggest a preference for a definitive cessation rather than mere opposition, adding fuel to an already fiery dialogue.

This statement and the conference itself have become focal points in a broader conversation about the freedom of expression and the limits of dissent, particularly when it involves a faith followed by millions. The controversy continues to elicit strong reactions from various sectors of society, with debates centering on the implications of such discussions for communal harmony and secularism in India.

In the wake of Udhayanidhi Stalin's emphatic comments on Sanatana Dharma, there has been considerable public reaction. Addressing the contentious issue, "Mosquitoes, dengue, flu, malaria, corona – we should not oppose these things. They’ve to be eradicated completely. Same is the case with Santanam (Hinduism). Our first work should be to abolish/eradicate Sanatanam instead of opposing it. So, my appreciations to you all for giving an apt title to the meeting," stated the DMK Minister at a recent conference.

As the son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, Udhayanidhi's position holds substantial influence, and he has notably declined to apologize for his remarks, which compare Sanatana Dharma to a contagion requiring elimination. His stance has remained firm, even in the face of potential legal proceedings.

The response to these declarations has been significant, prompting MK Stalin to issue a directive to DMK party members to cease further declarations on Sanatana Dharma, a move indicating an attempt to temper the discourse stirred by the initial statements. However, Udhayanidhi Stalin has chosen not to adhere to this guidance, reinforcing the notion that the DMK's foundational objectives include addressing the eradication of Sanatana Dharma, a point that continues to be a subject of intense discussion and debate.