BJP Criticizes Udhayanidhi Stalin Over ‘Faith-Only’ Diwali Greeting

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has triggered a political firestorm with his Diwali greeting directed only at “those who have faith,” prompting fierce criticism from BJP leaders who accuse him of discriminating against Hindus. The remarks, made during a recent event, have reignited tensions between the ruling DMK and the opposition BJP, with the latter slamming the statement as divisive and anti-Hindu.

Speaking at the event, Udhayanidhi, the 47-year-old son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, recounted how some attendees hesitated to extend Diwali wishes to him, unsure of his reaction. “When I reached the stage, many gave me bouquets, books, and some didn’t know what to tell me. Some hesitated whether to wish me on Diwali or not. They thought, ‘What if he gets angry if we wish?’ I am saying Happy Diwali to those who have faith,” he said. The comment, perceived as selective, has drawn sharp rebuke from BJP leaders who argue it marginalizes Hindus.

Former Governor and senior BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan was quick to respond, extending Diwali greetings to both MK Stalin and Udhayanidhi while emphasizing their Hindu roots. “They are fundamentally Hindu, irrespective of whether they agree or not. We will not wish only those who believe. I strongly condemn Udhayanidhi’s remarks,” she stated. Soundararajan further criticized the DMK for what she described as double standards, noting, “When you greet people from other religions, you don’t say it is for those who believe. But when it comes to the Hindu religion, you say it’s for those who believe.”

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Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson ANS Prasad escalated the attack, accusing the DMK government of lacking “basic grace” in acknowledging Hindu festivals. “It’s common knowledge that the DMK is an anti-Hindu party. Once ensconced in power, they are duty-bound to treat every citizen with absolute equality. The Constitution, meticulously crafted by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, underscores this imperative with unyielding clarity. Yet, the DMK regime lacks even the basic grace to offer greetings for Hindu festivals, choosing instead to spew unrelenting vitriol exclusively against the Hindu faith,” Prasad said.

This is not the first time Udhayanidhi’s remarks have stirred controversy. In 2023, he sparked nationwide outrage by comparing Sanatan Dharma to diseases like dengue and malaria, stating it was against social justice and needed to be “eradicated.” Those comments drew sharp condemnation from BJP leaders and Hindu organizations, cementing his reputation as a polarizing figure in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.

The latest controversy has fueled debates about the DMK’s stance on religious inclusivity, with critics arguing that Udhayanidhi’s selective greeting undermines the spirit of Diwali, a festival symbolizing unity and goodwill. As the five-day Diwali celebrations continue, the row is likely to keep Tamil Nadu’s political cauldron simmering, with both sides digging in for a prolonged battle over cultural and religious sensitivities.

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