DMK Leaders Condemn BJP State Chief's Remarks on Actor-Politician Vijay and Actor Trisha
In a sharp political exchange, Tamil Nadu's ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has strongly responded to alleged objectionable comments made by state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nainar Nagendran about actor-politician Vijay and actor Trisha. The controversy erupted after Nagendran commented on Vijay's recent rally in Salem, sparking widespread criticism from DMK members.
Kanimozhi Labels Remarks as 'Uncivilised' and Criticizes BJP Women Leaders
DMK MP Kanimozhi NVN Somu condemned Nagendran's remarks, calling them "uncivilised" for targeting the personal lives of individuals engaged in active politics. In a post on social media platform X, she emphasized that criticizing someone's personal life in the public sphere is inappropriate and undermines civil discourse.
Kanimozhi also took aim at women leaders within the Tamil Nadu BJP, accusing them of remaining silent without condemning Nagendran's statements. She stated, "For Mr Nainar Nagendran, the female leaders in the BJP remaining silent without condemning this is an injustice." She further argued that speaking in a manner that degrades the dignity and honor of a woman with no political connection tarnishes womanhood itself.
Tamizhachi Thangapandian Highlights Need for Dignity in Politics
Another DMK MP, Tamizhachi Thangapandian, joined the criticism, describing Nagendran's comments as "unbecoming" of the Tamil Nadu unit president of a party that leads the Union government. She specifically objected to disparaging remarks made about a woman expressing political views while traveling in public.
Thangapandian wrote on X, "It is not seemly for the Tamil Nadu state president of the party ruling India to speak disparagingly about a woman travelling in public while expressing political opinions. Speaking of and treating women with dignity is what constitutes civilised politics." Her statement underscored the DMK's call for respectful and dignified political engagement, particularly towards women.
Background of the Controversy Involving Vijay and Nagendran
The controversy stems from Nagendran's comments on Vijay's recent rally in Salem, where the actor-politician addressed supporters ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Referring to Vijay's lack of political experience, Nagendran suggested that Vijay should focus on his family and "come out of actor Trisha," implying that only then could his political prospects change. This remark has been interpreted as inappropriate and personal by critics.
Vijay, who founded and heads the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), used the Salem rally to counter criticism about his party's inexperience. He stated, "Other than scamming experience, what are the other qualities do the people who question my experience have? We don’t have experience, yes. We don’t have experience in looting." This was seen as a direct attack on the DMK, following Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's announcement of Rs 5,000 being credited to women beneficiaries under the Kalaignar Women’s Rights Scheme.
Vijay criticized the financial assistance, describing it as a "lure" rather than a genuine welfare measure, further escalating tensions between his party and the ruling DMK. The incident highlights the ongoing political rivalries in Tamil Nadu, with personal remarks sparking broader debates about civility and respect in public discourse.
