Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin Accuses BJP of Politicizing Karthigai Deepam Religious Tradition

Chennai:

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin indirectly addressed the Karthigai Deepam controversy at Thiruparukundram today, criticizing the BJP for politicizing religious matters.

During his visit to Madurai for official and party functions, the Chief Minister accused the BJP of engaging in divisive politics while emphasizing that the DMK remains focused on developmental initiatives.

"Opposition parties are pursuing politics with malicious intentions. While we discuss development, they divert attention elsewhere. I firmly state that regardless of how many conspiracies are formed, we will overcome them. Such strategies will not be effective against Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin," he declared.

Stalin referenced Kannagi, the iconic protagonist of Silapathigaram, who fought for justice after her husband Kovalan's unjust execution. He highlighted that Madurai is the land where Kannagi once demanded justice against a hasty verdict delivered without proper investigation.

He emphasized that the Karthigai Deepam ceremony at the Thiruparukundram Murugar Temple was conducted according to established tradition, affirming that the state government has never opposed spiritual practices.

"Our objective is Tamil Nadu's development. However, certain parties possess a riot mentality. They attempt to hinder our progress by raising unnecessary issues. Karthigai Deepam was illuminated at the traditional location, following all protocols. Everything was conducted properly. Local residents understand this well; they all participated in worship and returned home," he explained.

Stalin questioned why this suddenly became contentious and who was creating the controversy.

"Spiritualism promotes peace and unity. Creating divisions for political advantage isn't spiritualism. It's cheap politics. Since forming the government, we've conducted Kumbabishekam for over 3,000 temples. If such an administration is labeled anti-spiritual, people will clearly recognize the underlying motive," he asserted.

He criticized the Central government for rejecting Madurai's Metro Rail proposal and delaying the AIIMS project, accusing right-wing organizations of impeding Tamil Nadu's development by instigating unnecessary controversies.

Meanwhile, the BJP questioned the state government's non-compliance with court orders and accused the DMK of engaging in vote-bank politics.

The Thiruparukundram controversy continues. Tamil Nadu's appeal is now before the Supreme Court. A contempt petition related to the issue awaits hearing at the Madurai single bench, while the appeal challenging the single bench order regarding lighting the Deepam is before the division bench.

The legal proceedings are expected to intensify, with hearings scheduled for next week.