Madras HC Rejects Petitions Against Tamil Nadu Minister Stalin Amid ‘Sanatana Dharma Controversy’

The Madras High Court decided on Wednesday to dismiss petitions seeking quo warranto writs against Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Sekar Babu, and A Raja, who hold public office, amidst the ongoing Sanatana Dharma controversy.

These quo warranto petitions were filed by two Hindu Munnani functionaries and another individual, challenging the legitimacy of the official positions held by the three DMK leaders. The petitions raised concerns over their alleged participation in an “anti-Sanatana Dharma meeting” and speeches made against religious practices.

T. Manohar, identifying himself as a Hindu Munnani office-bearer, along with two others, initiated these petitions.

Earlier in the week, the Supreme Court rebuked Udhayanidhi Stalin for his remarks and attempts to consolidate numerous FIRs filed against him nationwide for relief. The court noted that as a minister, he should have been aware of the repercussions of his statements.

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The controversy arose when Udhayanidhi Stalin stated that Sanatana Dharma opposes equality and social justice, advocating for its eradication. He likened it to diseases such as coronavirus, malaria, and dengue, emphasizing the need for its elimination rather than mere criticism.

In response to the heated debate surrounding the ‘Sanatana row,’ Udhayanidhi Stalin, the son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, vowed to face all legal challenges against him. He urged DMK supporters to refrain from engaging in activities such as filing lawsuits against religious leaders or burning effigies. Additionally, he directed questions to Union Minister Amit Shah, Prime Minister Modi, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and the Ayodhya Seer for endorsing rewards on his life.

Stalin made these remarks during an event known as the ‘Sanatana Eradication Conference,’ organized by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers Artists Association in Chennai on September 2, 2023.