Chennai, 17 March (H.S):

A fresh political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after senior AIADMK leader and former minister C.Ve. Shanmugam made an objectionable remark involving actress Nayanthara during a protest rally in Villupuram, drawing sharp criticism from the ruling DMK and sparking a wider debate on political decorum.

The protest, organised by the AIADMK near the new bus stand in Villupuram, was aimed at highlighting what the party described as the DMK government’s failure to curb crimes against women. Addressing party cadres, Shanmugam launched a strong attack on the State government, questioning its governance record and accusing it of neglecting public safety.

During his speech, Shanmugam also took aim at the DMK’s recently promoted “Say Your Dream” initiative, contrasting it with former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s message encouraging youth to dream big. He alleged that the scheme was a political gimmick introduced late in the government’s tenure to distract from administrative shortcomings.

However, the speech took a controversial turn when Shanmugam made a personal remark referencing actress Nayanthara. In a statement widely condemned as inappropriate, he questioned whether the Chief Minister would fulfil such personal “dreams,” a comment that was criticised as disrespectful and insensitive.

The remarks triggered immediate backlash from the DMK, with several leaders condemning the tone of the speech. DMK Deputy General Secretary Kanimozhi termed the comments “vulgar” and accused the AIADMK of lacking political civility and respect towards women.

The controversy has further intensified the ongoing political confrontation between the DMK and the AIADMK, with both sides trading accusations as the State moves closer to the 2026 Assembly elections.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman