Political Controversy Erupts Over Comments on Kamaraj by DMK Leader
A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu following remarks by DMK leader Trichy Shiva about former Chief Minister Kamaraj. His comments, which suggested that Kamaraj required air conditioning due to allergies, have faced backlash from various political parties, leading to intervention from Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Congress MP Jothimani has strongly refuted Shiva's claims, labeling them as false and a continuation of past political animosity. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions within Tamil Nadu's political landscape.
| Jul 17, 2025, 19:16 IST
Political Fallout in Tamil Nadu
A political controversy has emerged in Tamil Nadu following remarks made by DMK's Deputy General Secretary and MP, Trichy Shiva, regarding former Chief Minister and Congress leader Kamaraj. His comments have drawn criticism from various political factions, prompting Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to publicly intervene. During a speech highlighting the relationship between DMK stalwart M. Karunanidhi and Kamaraj, Shiva stated that Karunanidhi had ordered air conditioners to be installed in Kamaraj's accommodations, as the Congress leader was reportedly allergic to them. Shiva emphasized that despite being from opposing parties, Karunanidhi took this action.
Shiva referenced events from the Emergency period, claiming there were attempts to arrest Kamaraj, who intended to travel to Tirupati. He mentioned, "However, the Chief Minister's office received information advising against his travel. Kamaraj responded that he belonged to Congress, not DMK, and could not be ordered around. He further noted that Karunanidhi had clarified he was speaking as Chief Minister, not as a DMK leader. According to Shiva, Kamaraj later realized this and, before his death, held Karunanidhi's hand, stating they must save the nation and democracy.
Congress's Strong Response
In response to Shiva's comments, Congress MP Jothimani expressed strong disapproval, asserting that Trichy Shiva's claim that Kamaraj could not sleep without an air-conditioned room is entirely false. She described this as a continuation of the political animosity and myths propagated against their leader Kamaraj in the past.