The DMK has strongly criticized Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai for his derogatory remarks about the party's anti-Hindi agitation, equating it to an "old, worn-out slipper." The DMK condemned Annamalai's statement, asserting that it was an insult to the memory of the martyrs who fought for the cause of the Tamil language.
Annamalai made these remarks during a campaign event in Sriperambudur, suggesting that the DMK was still clinging to outdated ideologies from 1980 regarding Hindi-Sanskrit and North-South divides.
Responding to Annamalai's comments, DMK spokesperson Saravanan criticized the BJP state chief for disrespecting the legacy of Tamil Nadu's language struggle. Saravanan emphasized the state's rich history of resisting Hindi imposition and questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not condemned Annamalai's remarks.
The AIADMK also joined in the criticism, labeling Annamalai's statement as foolish. AIADMK MLA Sellur Raju rebuked Annamalai for insulting the anti-Hindi agitation, highlighting the achievements of those who prioritized the Tamil and English languages.
The issue of language has historically been a significant factor in Tamil Nadu's politics, with the DMK's involvement in the anti-Hindi agitation in 1965 contributing to its electoral success in the state. Therefore, Annamalai's remarks have sparked controversy and drawn strong reactions from political parties in Tamil Nadu.
