"Eradicate Sanatana Dharma" MK Stalin's Son compares it with dengue and malaria

Udhayanidhi Stalin, a Tamil Nadu minister and the son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, ignited controversy with his remarks about Sanatana Dharma. Speaking at a writers' conference in Chennai, he stated that Sanatana Dharma is opposed to the principles of social justice and should be "eradicated." His comparison of the ancient tradition to diseases like dengue and malaria drew sharp criticism, particularly from BJP leaders.

Key developments in this controversy:

1. Controversial Comparison: Udhayanidhi Stalin equated Sanatana Dharma to diseases like dengue and malaria during his speech, asserting that it should not be opposed but eradicated. These comments triggered an immediate backlash on social media, with many demanding legal action against the Tamil Nadu minister.

2. Political Backlash: BJP's Amit Malviya took to social media to condemn Udhayanidhi Stalin's statements, linking them to Congress and its alliance with the DMK. He characterized the remarks as a "genocidal call" and criticized Congress's purported silence on the issue. 

3. Clarification and Response: In response to the criticism, Udhayanidhi Stalin clarified his stance, emphasizing that he did not call for the genocide of Sanatana Dharma followers. He argued that Sanatana Dharma perpetuates divisions based on caste and religion, advocating for its uprooting in favor of humanity and equality. He maintained that his remarks were made on behalf of marginalized communities who suffer due to the practices associated with Sanatana Dharma.

This controversy emerges against the backdrop of political maneuvering in Tamil Nadu and wider discussions about social justice and religious practices.