A recent social media post by Aadhav Arjuna, the General Secretary for Election Campaign Management of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has ignited significant controversy. In the now-deleted message, Arjuna suggested that the young people of Tamil Nadu might be forced to initiate a popular uprising against the current government, drawing parallels to movements witnessed in countries like Sri Lanka and Nepal.
The controversial post quickly spread across social media through screenshots. In it, Arjuna criticized perceived government overreach, stating, “Lathi charge for walking on the road. Arrest for posting an opinion on social media. If the police become the subordinates of the ruling class in this way, the only way out for the youth is revolution. Just as in Sri Lanka and Nepal, where youth and Gen Z came together to create revolts against authority, the same uprising of the youth will happen here. That uprising will become the foundation for a change of government and also a conclusion against State’s excess.”
Arjuna subsequently edited his message to remove the specific references to Sri Lanka and Nepal, before ultimately deleting the entire post from his X (formerly Twitter) account.
This public statement swiftly drew widespread condemnation from various political parties. Prominent figures such as DMK deputy general secretaries Kanimozhi and A. Raja, along with MDMK general secretary Vaiko, were among those who strongly criticized Arjuna’s comments.
Leaders React: Accusations of ‘Extreme Irresponsibility’
Kanimozhi specifically highlighted the timing of Arjuna’s remarks, calling them “extreme irresponsibility.” She emphasized that such comments inciting violence are inappropriate, especially in the wake of a tragic stampede that resulted in 41 deaths at a TVK rally in Karur on September 27. She urged for sensitivity and responsibility from leaders.
Addressing reporters at the DMK headquarters in Chennai, Kanimozhi questioned Arjuna’s actions following the tragedy. She publicly asked, “How could a party leader leave the site of such a tragedy without even offering condolences, prioritising his own security? If he was unable to visit the victims, he could have asked his party’s second-rung leaders and district office-bearers to assist the affected people.”
Kanimozhi highlighted the swift response of the State government, noting that the Chief Minister and other Ministers promptly visited those affected and provided necessary arrangements. She also mentioned the government’s formation of a one-member commission, led by retired Madras High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to investigate the stampede. She concluded by stressing the importance of preventing such tragedies in the future, urging event organizers to prioritize safety and security.
Raja Condemns Lack of ‘Political Wisdom’
A. Raja also addressed the media, stating, “When India’s economic growth rate was 8%, Tamil Nadu’s growth rate stood at nearly 12%. The State is progressing peacefully.” He criticized Arjuna’s post as being against India’s sovereignty and integrity. Raja further questioned the TVK leadership, asking, “Even though he deleted the post, did Mr. Vijay condemn him? Did he [Mr. Arjuna] issue any statement saying what he posted was wrong? He acted without political wisdom. Is this good for Tamil Nadu? Why was he not removed from the party?”
Raja lauded Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for handling the Karur incident with political maturity, transcending party lines. He also pointed out that TVK members had not visited the affected individuals in Karur, suggesting their absence might be due to a sense of guilt following the incident.