Chennai: DMK president M K Stalin’s comments targetting P Sathyabama, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) candidate for the Dharapuram by-election, have sparked sharp criticism from Chief Minister and TVK leader C Joseph Vijay alongside leaders across Tamil Nadu's political spectrum.

In response, the TVK has submitted a formal representation to the Election Commission of India (ECI), requesting the cancellation of Stalin’s star campaigner status. The party has also sought directives to the Tiruppur District Election Officer to register a police case against the DMK leader.

 

Allegations of code of conduct violation

Detailing the complaint submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer, PWD Minister Aadhav Arjuna stated that Stalin ridiculed Sathyabama’s physical appearance during a campaign rally, questioning how she could perform a somersault given her physical build. The TVK argued that these comments had no connection to her political credentials or campaign and constituted a clear violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

Vijay strongly condemned the statements, accusing the DMK of indulging in objectionable rhetoric against women and violating democratic principles. He added that the electorate would deliver a fitting response through the ballot box. TVK leadership confirmed plans to initiate criminal proceedings once the by-election concludes, while demanding an immediate unconditional apology.

 

Widespread cross-party condemnation

The controversy has triggered strong disapproval from political figures across party lines.

CPM: State secretary P Shanmugam stated that making such personal remarks was unbefitting of someone who has served as Chief Minister.

BJP: Senior leader Tamilisai Soundararajan expressed anger, stating that casually making light of derogatory remarks against women reflected deeply ingrained biases.

TVK: Law Minister CTR Nirmal Kumar speaking in Coimbatore, the remarked that such rhetoric stemmed from electoral desperation, predicting voters would reject both major Dravidian parties.

Concurrently, functionaries from TVK’s women’s wing in Madurai submitted official petitions at the Thirumangalam DSP office and Teppakulam police station demanding legal action.