Udhayanidhi Stalin detained over insinuations: Here’s what the DMK leader stated.

Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Leader of the Opposition in Tamil Nadu, was taken into custody by Thanjavur Police on Tuesday, August 4, as part of an investigation related to his controversial remarks made the previous day during a DMK demonstration in Thanjavur. The protest focused on the Tamil Nadu government’s management of the Cauvery issue.

While addressing his supporters, who were chanting actress Trisha’s name, Udhayanidhi criticized Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay. His comments were perceived by many as a double entendre about the actress, leading to significant backlash on social media and from various political parties.

The situation intensified after Bhairavi, a member of the TVK women’s wing, lodged a police complaint in Thanjavur. Following this, police charged Udhayanidhi under six sections, including some non-bailable provisions. A substantial police presence was stationed outside his Neelangarai home amidst protests and rising political unrest.

Earlier that day, Udhayanidhi sought relief from the Madras High Court. The court instructed the police not to engage in any coercive actions against him until 12 noon. Despite this, he was apprehended around 11 am, and several DMK supporters who had gathered outside his home for a demonstration were also detained. Senior DMK leaders and ministers such as EV Velu, KN Nehru, PK Sekarbabu, and Ma Subramanian came to his residence to show their solidarity.

As he was taken away by law enforcement, Udhayanidhi stated, “The ruling party cannot answer the Opposition’s questions regarding farmers’ issues and the Cauvery issue. To distract from the concerns I raised during yesterday’s protest, they are arresting me. They are circulating edited segments of my speech and spreading misinformation. I am prepared to face the consequences and not intimidated by this fabricated case against me.”

When reporters inquired if he thought the actions were politically motivated, Udhayanidhi responded, “I don’t believe they have the intellect to turn this into a political issue. They are a group of fools. I’ll accept the repercussions.”

Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Opposition MLA, is being taken to the Thanjavur Magistrate Court. DMK leaders gathered outside his residence claimed that his arrest occurred just a day before the Tamil Nadu Budget session, the first Budget meeting of the new government, alleging that this was an attempt to undermine the Opposition’s voice ahead of the Assembly proceedings.Also Read: Why Tamil Nadu CM Vijay is shifting his office after 60 years: Sea view, vastu buzz and secretariat pushback