‘Immature remark’: TN Minister hits out at TVK’s Vijay for calling CM Stalin ‘uncle’
Chennai: Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi on Sunday strongly criticised Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay for his comments against Chief Minister MK Stalin, terming the actor-politician’s words “immature” and unfit for someone newly entering politics.
What triggered the row?
The controversy began after Vijay, during a recent speech, referred to Chief Minister Stalin as ‘uncle.’ Responding to reporters’ queries, Minister Poyyamozhi said Stalin’s public life spans over five decades and that he now heads the ruling DMK.
“Vijay and his supporters must reflect on whether it is acceptable to use such an inappropriate term against the Chief Minister,” the minister remarked.
Poyyamozhi reminded that Vijay’s family has enjoyed long-standing cordial ties with late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi, Chief Minister Stalin, and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. He stressed that Vijay, having stepped into politics, must show restraint in his public speeches rather than adopt a tone resembling cinematic dialogue.
“Vijay’s remarks were made in an immature fashion. He must realise the dignity of public life is different from that of films,” Poyyamozhi asserted.
How did DMK cadres respond?
The row intensified in Madurai, where DMK functionaries put up wall posters condemning Vijay’s ‘uncle’ comment. The posters urged the TVK leader to desist from such remarks and to show proper respect to the Chief Minister.
The matter has been simmering since August 23, when Agriculture Minister MRK Panneerselvam had also criticised Vijay’s choice of words. According to him, the actor lacked political decorum and was addressing his supporters as though he were delivering a film dialogue.
“Cinema and politics are not the same. Leaders must understand the difference,” Panneerselvam observed, warning Vijay against blurring the boundaries.
Vijay launched his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party earlier this year, positioning himself as an alternative to the Dravidian majors.
(Agency inputs)