Hindu saints in Delhi took to the streets on Monday to express their strong disapproval of DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's recent controversial remarks regarding Sanatan Dharma. In a symbolic act of protest, they set fire to effigies of Udhayanidhi near the Tamil Nadu Bhawan.
The protesters, operating under the banner of Delhi Sant Mahamandal, carried placards condemning Udhayanidhi Stalin and other political figures who had expressed similar sentiments or offered support to the DMK leader. Their procession began at a temple in Sarojini Nagar and made its way towards Tamil Nadu Bhawan, where they were halted by the police at Africa Avenue, PTI repoerted.
During the demonstration, the protesters called for leaders of various political parties to exercise restraint when making statements concerning 'Sanatan Dharma.' They also demanded an apology from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin for his son's remarks.
Narayan Giri Maharaj, the President of Delhi Sant Mahamandal, expressed surprise at the silence of state governments on this issue. He noted that even the Supreme Court had taken note of hate speech by politicians targeting Sanatan Dharma. He emphasized the need for strict action against such political leaders, as their language could potentially fuel animosity among different communities.
Udhayanidhi Stalin, who serves as a minister in the Tamil Nadu government and is the son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, had stirred controversy with his comparison of Sanatan Dharma to diseases like dengue and malaria, advocating for its eradication on grounds of social justice.
