Political Storm Erupts Over Sanskrit Language Remarks
The Bharatiya Janata Party launched a fierce attack on Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin after he described Sanskrit as a "dead language" during a public event, triggering a major political controversy in the state.
Speaking at a book launch function in Chennai on Friday, the DMK leader criticized the Union government's allocation of funds for language development, specifically pointing out that Rs 150 crore was allocated for Tamil while Sanskrit received Rs 2,400 crore, despite being what he termed as a language no longer in common use.
BJP's Strong Reaction to Language Comments
BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia responded sharply to Udhayanidhi Stalin's comments, accusing the deputy chief minister of displaying consistent "hatred" toward Hindus and their cultural heritage. The BJP leader characterized Stalin's remarks as "cheap and disgusting" and claimed they were part of a pattern of insulting Hindu sentiments.
"Once again insulting and abusing Hindus and our culture, Udhayanidhi Stalin is now saying that Sanskrit is a dead language," Bhatia stated during his press conference. He emphasized that Sanskrit represents the foundation of Indian culture and religious texts cherished by millions of Hindus across the country.
Pattern of Controversial Statements
The BJP spokesperson referenced previous controversial statements made by DMK leaders, including Udhayanidhi Stalin's earlier comparison of Hindutva and Hindus to dengue and malaria. Bhatia asserted that despite the Supreme Court having reprimanded DMK leaders for making "absurd statements" in the past, the deputy chief minister continues to make what he described as "petty and disgusting jokes" aimed at hurting Hindu sentiments.
Drawing a sharp contrast between political leadership styles, Bhatia claimed that while Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become a "symbol of unity" through his development-focused approach and positive politics, Udhayanidhi Stalin has become "synonymous with anarchy and division" in the country.
The controversy highlights the ongoing political tensions between the ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP-led central government, with language and cultural issues frequently becoming flashpoints in their political discourse. The substantial difference in funding allocation between Tamil and Sanskrit has become the latest battleground in this ongoing political conflict.
