Tamil Nadu witnessed major political drama on Tuesday after DMK leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin was detained by the police over his alleged “double meaning” remark made during a protest in Thanjavur over the Cauvery water-sharing dispute. However, the Madras High Court later directed the police to release him after questioning and ensure that his detention was not prolonged.
The development came during the hearing of Udhayanidhi’s anticipatory bail plea. Advocate General Vijay Narayan informed the court that the DMK leader would not be kept in custody after questioning. Recording the government’s assurance, Justice G. K. Ilanthiraiyan directed the police to release him before the end of the day.
What Led To The Controversy?
The controversy began after Udhayanidhi Stalin led a protest against the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government’s handling of the Cauvery water-sharing issue and Karnataka’s proposed Mekedatu dam project. During his speech, while criticising Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, a person from the crowd reportedly shouted the name of actress Trisha. Udhayanidhi responded with a remark that was later alleged to contain a suggestive double meaning, leading to widespread criticism.
Following the speech, police registered multiple FIRs against him across Tamil Nadu. According to officials, at least six cases have been filed including one based on a complaint by the TVK women’s wing which alleged that the remarks were offensive towards women.
“It’s A Diversion Tactic,” Says Udhayanidhi Stalin
Before being taken away for questioning from his Neelankarai residence, Udhayanidhi addressed the media and called the police action a “comedy.”
He said, “I spoke for over 20 minutes on farmers, their welfare and the Cauvery river water issue. They have manipulated something that I never spoke about and are using it as a diversion tactic. It’s not me; even a basic member of my party will not be threatened by such arrests. We will face it legally.”
The detention triggered protests by DMK workers across the state while TVK members staged counter-protests demanding action against him. BJP leaders also criticised the remarks calling them inappropriate.
What’s Next?
Although Udhayanidhi has now been released after questioning, the legal battle is far from over. Investigations into the registered cases will continue while the political confrontation between the DMK and the ruling TVK is expected to intensify in the coming days.
ALSO READ: Big Twist In Ravi Mohan Divorce Case! Court Cuts Aarti Ravi’s ₹40 Lakh Maintenance Plea To ₹3 Lakh
