Tamil Nadu Law Minister and DMK leader S. Regupathy has stirred controversy with his remarks comparing Lord Ram to the Dravidian model of governance. Speaking at an event organized by Kamban Kazhagam, Regupathy described Lord Ram as a proponent of social justice and a precursor to the Dravidian model.
According to Regupathy, "Ram was the only hero who preached secularism and social justice to the world." He praised Ram as a protector of social justice and suggested that the 'Rama Kaviyam' (Ramayan) was intended to promote a future society free of inequality. Regupathy also expressed a desire to visit the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, indicating respect for Ram's legacy.
The BJP has sharply criticized Regupathy's comments, calling it absurd to compare Lord Ram’s rule with the Dravidian model of governance under the DMK. The BJP's response likened the DMK’s model to Ravana's kingdom, contrasting it with what they view as the ideal of Ram Rajya. They found the comparison "funny and laughable," especially given the DMK's past statements, such as those made by state minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who previously compared 'Sanatana Dharma' to diseases like malaria and dengue and called for its eradication.
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between the Dravidian parties and the BJP over interpretations of cultural and political legacies in India.
