MK Stalin Critiques Tamil Nadu Government Over Arrest of Former Minister

Stalin's Criticism of Government Actions

MK Stalin, the leader of the DMK, has expressed strong disapproval of the Tamil Nadu government led by TVK. He accused the administration of using police to target opposition leaders while ignoring more pressing issues. This statement was made on January 31, 2026. The former minister, Anita R. Radhakrishnan, was arrested in connection with defamation allegations related to comments made about Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay during a DMK public meeting.

Concerns Over Radhakrishnan's Arrest

In a post on X, Stalin questioned the urgency of Radhakrishnan's arrest, noting that she was taken into custody while inspecting development projects in her constituency. He remarked, 'What was the rush to arrest someone engaged in public service and overseeing work in their area?' He criticized the government for its 'take diversion' approach, suggesting that the arrest was politically motivated.

Allegations of Selective Law Enforcement

Stalin accused the Chief Minister of running a police state reminiscent of action films and condemned the government's selective enforcement of the law. He compared the swift action against Radhakrishnan to the lack of response to a gang rape complaint against a TVK MLA from Srivaikuntam. He questioned why the administration, which has failed to address serious crimes like murders and robberies across Tamil Nadu, is focused on targeting opposition legislators.

Court's Decision on Radhakrishnan's Bail

Earlier on January 31, 2026, the Madras High Court rejected Radhakrishnan's anticipatory bail plea in the defamation case, paving the way for her arrest. Justice GK Ilanthirayan referenced the history of governance by film industry leaders in Tamil Nadu since 1967 and raised concerns about the nature of the alleged defamatory statements. The police reported that Radhakrishnan was inspecting development works in the Athur Town Panchayat of the Tiruchendur assembly constituency when she was taken into custody for questioning.