Tiruchi, Sep 14 — Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister S. Ramesh on Monday accused the opposition DMK of promoting a political culture marked by obscene, derogatory and abusive remarks.
Speaking to reporters in Tiruchi, Ramesh said protests and demonstrations were fundamental democratic rights, but political leaders should not use such occasions to make personal attacks or employ offensive language.
His remarks came a day after senior DMK leader A. Raja allegedly made a personal attack on Law Minister R. Nirmal Kumar during a DMK protest.
“Speaking obscenely, making defamatory remarks and spreading falsehoods are part of the DMK’s DNA. It would be surprising if its leaders did not use such language. We will continue to oppose this political culture,” Ramesh said.
The minister also accused former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin of encouraging such behaviour within the party. He alleged that Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin frequently made double-meaning remarks and levelled cheap and derogatory criticism against ministers.
Responding to a question about a former DMK minister allegedly referring to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay in a disrespectful manner, Ramesh warned that the government would initiate strict legal action against those making disparaging remarks about the Chief Minister, women or members of the public.
He said morality and restraint were particularly important for anyone who had held responsibility for the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department.
Ramesh also rejected AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s allegation that crimes against women had increased sharply during the first three months of the TVK government. He argued that the present law-and-order challenges resulted from failures during the previous five years and that the new government was taking steps to correct systemic problems.
“Even after the rain stops, the wind does not immediately subside. Similarly, the consequences of corruption and administrative failures under the former government continue. We are correcting them and will bring about comprehensive change,” he said.
The minister said the government had introduced the Singappen Special Task Force and established a dedicated anti-drug wing as part of measures to strengthen women’s safety and improve law and order.
He also praised Vijay’s efforts to develop Tamil Nadu as a major sporting destination and encourage talented athletes from the State to gain international recognition.