Union Minister L Murugan inaugurated the Vinayagar Chaturthi procession in Coimbatore, criticizing VCK's anti-liquor conference as a potential bargaining chip for alliance negotiations. He also addressed Hindu festivals and government restrictions.
Coimbatore: Union Minister of State L Murugan inaugurated the Vinayagar Chaturthi procession organized by Hindu Munnani at Coimbatore's Thepakulam Ground. Before the event, Murugan addressed a public gathering where he spoke about the significance of Vinayagar Chaturthi celebrations in Tamil Nadu.
Murugan highlighted that Vinayagar Chaturthi celebrations have been creating a significant impact in Tamil Nadu for the past 50 years. He mentioned that Bal Gangadhar Tilak initiated this festival during the freedom struggle to unite Hindus against British rule.
The minister criticized the current state government's attempts to suppress Hindu festivals. He warned that officials should remember they are also central government employees and should treat all equally. Murugan expressed hope that the Tamil Nadu government would take action against officials who fail to do so.
Addressing recent political developments, Murugan praised Prime Minister Modi for fulfilling the BJP's promise by abrogating Article 370 in Kashmir. He also mentioned the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand from November.
Murugan questioned the DMK and Congress about their ideological stance, asserting that the BJP has clear policies. He raised concerns about restrictions on Hindu festivals in Tamil Nadu, despite the constitutional right to freedom of worship.
The minister criticized Chief Minister Stalin for not extending Vinayagar Chaturthi greetings, contrasting it with his previous actions during the BJP's Vel Yatra. Murugan suggested that the growing support for BJP and Hindu organizations in Tamil Nadu is causing fear within the DMK government.
Regarding the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi's (VCK) anti-liquor conference, Murugan speculated that it could be a bargaining tactic for alliance negotiations or an attempt to pressure the DMK. He also criticized VCK leader Thirumavalavan, calling him a caste-based leader rather than a representative of all Scheduled Castes.
Murugan concluded by expressing concern over the widespread drug and alcohol abuse in Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the need for action against substance abuse.