Former Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president K Annamalai has launched a sharp attack on the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government. His criticism comes in response to controversial statements made by State Minister for Natural Resources, Regupathy, regarding traditional cremation practices in Thiruparankundram.
Minister's Remarks Spark Controversy
The political firestorm ignited after Minister Regupathy commented on the long-standing practice in certain areas. He stated that 'corpses should only be burnt in crematoriums' and emphasized that 'customs must not be changed'. These remarks, made on 07 January 2026, were perceived as an intervention in local Hindu funeral rites, particularly concerning the Thiruparankundram issue where traditional ground cremations have been a practice.
Annamalai's Strong Rebuttal
K Annamalai, a prominent BJP leader and former state chief, swiftly condemned the minister's position. He accused the DMK government of displaying an 'anti-Hindu' stance by attempting to regulate deeply held religious customs. Annamalai argued that the minister's directive disrespects the sentiments of the Hindu community and imposes unnecessary restrictions on their age-old rituals.
In his response, Annamalai framed the issue as part of a larger pattern. He suggested that the DMK administration consistently targets Hindu traditions under the guise of modernization or rule enforcement. The former BJP chief's statement amplifies the ongoing political tension in Tamil Nadu, where matters of religious practice often become central to political discourse.
Political Implications and Community Sentiment
This exchange highlights the sensitive intersection of public policy, land use, and religious freedom in the state. The Thiruparankundram issue is not merely about cremation grounds; it has become a symbolic flashpoint. For many, it represents the struggle to preserve religious autonomy against governmental oversight.
The BJP, under leaders like Annamalai, is positioning itself as the defender of Hindu customs. This confrontation allows the party to consolidate its narrative against the DMK ahead of future electoral battles. The incident is likely to resonate with segments of the electorate for whom cultural and religious identity is a primary concern.
As of now, the state government has not issued a further clarification or response to Annamalai's allegations. The controversy underscores the delicate balance that state authorities must maintain while managing public resources and respecting diverse community practices.
