Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin delivered a strong rebuttal to critics of his government, asserting that conspiracies aimed at halting the state's progress through divisive politics will be decisively rejected by its people. Speaking at a public welfare event in Madurai on Sunday, the CM inaugurated multiple development projects and addressed recent controversies surrounding temple rituals.
Defending Tradition and Decrying Divisive Politics
Stalin directly addressed the recent discourse around the Karthigai Deepam ceremony. He clarified that the ceremonial lighting at both the Murugan temple and the Uchi Pilliyar temple in Thiruparankundram was conducted as per custom by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department. The CM emphasized that devotees had a peaceful darshan and departed without issue. He questioned the motives of those raising the matter now, stating, "People are fully aware of their motives."
He praised the people of Madurai for rejecting communal politics and standing firmly for peace. Stalin highlighted the city's historic legacy of social justice, referencing Kannagi's challenge to a king's flawed judgment, and its present-day communal harmony where people of various religions live as kin.
Spirituality vs. Cheap Politics: A Sharp Distinction
The Chief Minister drew a clear line between genuine spirituality and political opportunism. He stated that true spirituality is meant to foster peace, tranquillity, and unity. "Actions that fragment society for the political gain of a few cannot be called spirituality. That is cheap politics," he declared.
To counter accusations of being anti-spiritual, Stalin presented a significant statistic. He claimed that never in Tamil Nadu's history have over 3,000 temples been consecrated within 1,490 days of a government taking office, a feat achieved by his administration. He argued this record exposes the baseless intention behind such allegations.
Development Push and a Political Challenge
During the event, Stalin inaugurated a total of 63 completed projects worth ₹2,630 crore. A major component was the Mullaperiyar drinking water project, built at a cost of ₹1,687 crore, aimed at addressing water supply needs in the region.
Invoking the social justice legacy of Periyar, Stalin asserted that this flame cannot be extinguished. Taking a sporting metaphor aimed at political opponents, he said, "You (BJP) may get slaves as your team players. Irrespective of the balls you bowl, TN will hit sixers and ultimately, we will win." This statement underscored his confidence in the state's rejection of what he termed divisive forces.
