Chennai: DMK leader and Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin was taken into police custody on Monday after Chennai Police acted on an FIR registered over his controversial remarks targeting Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay during a recent protest. The action has intensified the political confrontation between the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and the opposition Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
The controversy stems from comments made by Udhayanidhi during a Cauvery water protest in Thanjavur, where his speech triggered sharp criticism from TVK leaders and women’s wing members, who alleged that some of his remarks were derogatory and inappropriate.
Police take Udhayanidhi into custody
Police arrived at Udhayanidhi Stalin’s residence in Chennai and took him into custody for questioning after registering a case over his speech.
Several DMK workers who gathered to protest the police action were also detained. The police said the action followed complaints that his remarks violated the law and were capable of provoking public unrest.
Remarks spark political row
The FIR relates to statements Udhayanidhi made while criticising the Tamil Nadu government over the Cauvery water dispute and governance issues.
One particular remark, along with slogans raised during the protest involving actress Trisha, drew widespread criticism. TVK alleged that the comments amounted to personal attacks on Chief Minister Vijay and insulted women.
TVK and BJP condemn comments
Leaders from the ruling TVK strongly criticised Udhayanidhi’s speech, accusing him of lowering the standards of political discourse.
The TVK women’s wing lodged a police complaint, while BJP leaders also condemned the remarks and demanded legal action against the DMK leader.
DMK defends its leader
The DMK defended Udhayanidhi, claiming his speech had been misinterpreted and selectively quoted.
Senior party leader TKS Elangovan said political opponents had twisted the context of the speech and maintained that Udhayanidhi had not made any objectionable statements.
Political tensions escalate
The incident marks the latest flashpoint in the increasingly bitter rivalry between Chief Minister Vijay and the DMK leadership after the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Since becoming Leader of the Opposition, Udhayanidhi Stalin has repeatedly criticised the TVK government on issues including law and order, farmers’ concerns and the Cauvery dispute, while the ruling party has accused the DMK of pursuing confrontational politics.
Investigation underway
Police are expected to continue questioning Udhayanidhi as part of their investigation into the FIR.
The DMK has indicated that it will challenge the police action politically and legally, while the ruling party has maintained that the law should take its course irrespective of political affiliation.
Conclusion
Udhayanidhi Stalin’s detention has added another chapter to the escalating political battle between the ruling TVK and the opposition DMK in Tamil Nadu. As police continue their investigation into the controversial remarks, the incident is likely to deepen political tensions in the state in the coming days.