'This country is One': Tejashwi Yadav reacts to DMK MP's 'Anti UP-Bihar rant'

Bihar Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav has criticized the recent controversial comments made by DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran, targeting Hindi-speaking migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. In a strongly worded statement, Yadav expressed his disappointment, stating that such remarks are unbecoming of a party like DMK, which stands for social justice.

Speaking to the media, Yadav said "It would have made sense if the DMK MP had highlighted caste inequities, pointing out that only people from certain social groups took on such difficult jobs. However, disparaging the entire population of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh is reprehensible. We strongly condemn it." "We believe that people should respect those who come from other parts of the country. This country is one," Yadav added.

Amid the controversy, DMK sources have claimed that the video featuring Dayanidhi Maran's remarks is old. They suggested that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) recirculated the video to divert attention from other pressing issues. The DMK is currently embroiled in a dispute with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over flood relief funding.

The political row was triggered by Maran's speech, where he can be heard emphasising the importance of learning English for better job prospects. The video circulated widely, drawing criticism for its comments about migrants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Further, BJP leader Amit Malviya shared the video on social media, directing questions to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Malviya sought clarification on whether DMK leaders' words aligned with the positions of their respective parties.