Chennai: Tamil Nadu Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin was arrested on Tuesday after police registered a case over his alleged remarks involving actor Trisha during a political rally, triggering a fresh political controversy in the state. The case includes two non bailable provisions, making the legal proceedings against the DMK leader more significant.
Among the charges invoked are Section 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which relates to promoting enmity between different groups, and Section 4 of the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, which deals with harassment of women. In non bailable offences, bail is granted at the discretion of the court after considering the seriousness of the allegations and other legal factors.
Police have also invoked several other sections, including provisions relating to provoking a riot, intentional insult, criminal intimidation, obscene acts, insulting the modesty of a woman and the publication of obscene material under the Information Technology Act.
The controversy stems from a protest rally in Thanjavur over the Cauvery water dispute, where sections of the crowd repeatedly chanted actor Trisha’s name while Udhayanidhi was criticising the state government. His response sparked allegations of using an offensive double meaning remark, drawing criticism from the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam and the BJP.
Following his arrest, Udhayanidhi denied any wrongdoing, insisting that his remarks had been misrepresented. He alleged that the case was politically motivated and intended to divert attention from issues concerning farmers and the Cauvery water dispute.
The latest controversy adds to a series of high profile remarks made by the DMK leader over the years, including his comments on Sanatan Dharma and former AIADMK leader V.K. Sasikala, both of which had sparked widespread political backlash.
The arrest has intensified the political confrontation in Tamil Nadu, with the DMK accusing the ruling government of targeting the Opposition, while rival parties continue to demand strict legal action against Udhayanidhi Stalin.
