Udhayanidhi Stalin, Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister and son of Chief Minister MK Stalin, made highly controversial remarks about Sanatana Dharma in September 2023. He compared Sanatana Dharma to diseases like dengue, malaria, and corona, saying it should be eradicated like these ailments. He described Sanatana Dharma as a principle that divides people based on caste and religion and argued that uprooting it is necessary to uphold humanity and social equality
. Despite facing severe backlash from opposition parties including the BJP, which labeled his remarks as a "genocidal call," Udhayanidhi stood firm and refused to apologize. He stated that his comments were in line with the Dravidian movement's ideology, particularly referencing Periyar, who fought against caste discrimination and social injustice. Udhayanidhi emphasized that he was not calling for violence against followers of Sanatana Dharma but was opposing the caste-based social structure associated with it
. The Supreme Court of India reprimanded him for his remarks, cautioning that as a minister, he should be aware of the consequences of his statements and not abuse his constitutional rights. The court questioned whether he understood the impact of his words and adjourned the hearing of related petitions
. In summary, Udhayanidhi Stalin said that Sanatana Dharma should be eradicated because it perpetuates caste divisions and social inequality, equating it to diseases that must be eliminated, and he has stood by these remarks despite widespread criticism and legal challenges
