Chennai Minister Udayanidhi Files Reply in Sanatanam Case
Chennai: Minister Udayanidhi Stalin and the Legislative Assembly Secretary have filed a reply in the case related to their statements about Sanatanam. The issue arose during an event held in Chennai where Minister Udayanidhi Stalin and DMK MP A. Raza expressed the need to abolish Sanatanam. Minister PK Shekharbabu also participated in the discussion.
Following their remarks about abolishing Sanatanam, three executives of the Hindu Front filed co-warrant petitions in the Madras High Court, demanding an explanation on the basis of which qualifications the politicians are continuing in their roles as people’s representatives.
The case was brought before Justice Anita Sumant yesterday, and a reply petition was filed on behalf of Udhayanidhi and the Legislative Assembly Secretary. Senior advocate P. Wilson, representing Udhayanidhi, argued citing Manusmriti, Sanatanam, and government directives that all castes have the right to become priests. He further stated that discussing the abolition of Sanatanam is not unconstitutional, and pointed out the possible involvement of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the case, suggesting that central government lawyers were appearing for the petitioners.
Udhayanidhi clarified that his statements were made in a personal capacity, rather than as a Minister. He argued that co-warrant petitions can only be filed if a person holds office without proper qualifications. He emphasized that there is no mention of Sanatanam in the Constitution or any other law.
Udhayanidhi expressed his belief that Sanatanam, which segregates people based on caste and religion, should be abolished. He stressed the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and protecting their rights. He further stated that the conflict over this policy has been ongoing for years, but the petitioners, who allege that his statements go against the constitution and sovereignty, have failed to provide any evidence to support their claims.
The judge adjourned the trial to October 31, ordering the Udhayanidhi’s side to submit all relevant details, including the invitation letter and the names of all participants, on that day.