Chennai, April 6: The political tension between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) escalated on Monday after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis accused the Tamil Nadu government of being ‘anti-Sanatana’ and ‘anti-Hindu’.
In response, DMK spokesperson T.K.S. Elangovan sharply countered these claims, asserting that the DMK is the only party in India founded to uplift Hindus marginalized by higher castes.
Speaking to reporters, Elangovan emphasized that the DMK was established to elevate the marginalized sections within Hindu society, particularly those historically classified as Shudras and Panchamas under the traditional caste system.
He noted that the party’s ideological roots are embedded in the Dravidian movement, which aimed to ensure access to education, employment, and dignity for oppressed communities.
Elangovan refuted the allegations, stating that the DMK was created in the interest of Hindus pushed to the margins by higher castes. The movement was initiated to provide them with education and job opportunities, and it is not against Hindus.
He argued that a significant majority of Hindus, whom he estimated to comprise about 90% of the population within the traditional caste framework, have historically faced ostracism and discrimination. According to him, the DMK’s policies and political actions are consistently aimed at addressing these inequalities.
The DMK leader highlighted that practices of untouchability and social ostracism were prevalent in Tamil Nadu nearly a century ago. Dalits were not allowed to travel on buses or receive education. The Dravidian movement was launched to change this reality and ensure equality and opportunities for all.
Elangovan also dismissed the accusation of being anti-Hindu, turning the argument around. He stated, “We are not anti-Hindu. We stand for the welfare of Hindus. Those who push the majority of Hindus to the margins, considering them untouchable or inferior, are the true anti-Hindus.”
Earlier in the day, CM Fadnavis criticized the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government, alleging it was ‘anti-Sanatana’ and ‘anti-Hindu’, engaging in appeasement politics while ignoring Hindu traditions and values.
He also accused the state government of failing to respect judicial directives and attempting to challenge them in higher courts.
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