Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticised the DMK in the Lok Sabha, accusing them of hypocrisy for idolising an "elderly person" who once called Tamil a "barbaric" language, referring to Periyar.
Published Mar 12, 2025 | 9:10 PM ⚊ Updated Mar 12, 2025 | 9:10 PM
Nirmala Sitharaman. (X)
Synopsis: On 11 March, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticised the DMK in the Lok Sabha over the language row, accusing the party of idolising Periyar EV Ramasamy, who disparaged Tamil. Sitharaman’s remarks reignited tensions in Tamil Nadu
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched a strong attack on the DMK during her speech in the Lok Sabha on 11 March, accusing the party of hypocrisy over the ongoing language row.
Sitharaman criticised the DMK for idolising an “elderly person” who had once described Tamil as a “barbaric” language that could not even help beggars get alms.
Though Sitharaman did not name the “elderly person,” she was seemingly referring to Periyar EV Ramasamy, a key leader of the Dravidian movement, known for his controversial views.
The minister’s remarks reignited tensions regarding the language debate in Tamil Nadu, with the BJP leader accusing the DMK of hypocrisy in worshipping someone who had spoken disparagingly about the Tamil language.
Retired IAS officer Sasikanth Senthil took to X, stating: “First, the Education Minister called Tamilians ‘Undemocratic and Uncivilized.’ Then, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey claimed ‘Sanskrit is older than Tamil.’ Now, with the Finance Minister’s speech, the BJP has hit a new low—misquoting Periyar while ignoring who actually called Tamil ‘Neesa Bhashai’ and Sanskrit ‘Deva Bhashai.'”
He added, “@annamalai_k, you haven’t addressed concerns about UPSC CSAT yet, but at least send a better script to your party members.”
First, the Education Minister called the Tamilians “Undemocratic and Uncivilized.” Then, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey claimed “Sanskrit is older than Tamil.” And now, with the Finance Minister’s speech, the BJP has reached its climax—misquoting Periyar out of context while conveniently… pic.twitter.com/TO1PnnVTPS
— Sasikanth Senthil (@s_kanth) March 12, 2025
Saravanan Annadurai, Official Spokesperson of DMK & Joint Secretary, responded on X, “Madam, no matter what you say or do, ‘Thanthai Periyar’ will remain deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of Tamilians. Tamil Nadu’s progress owes much to his rationalist policies, adopted by successive governments here.
You speak fluent English today because Periyar fought against Hindi imposition and ensured English remained an official language. Your rise to prominence is directly tied to your command of English.
We understand that Periyar’s teachings continue to unsettle Hindutva supporters.
Duplicity is the BJP’s nature.
Dravidian ideology will prevail and drive BJP out of power.
Long Live Periyar’s Legacy! Long Live Periyar’s Ideology!”
Madam whatever you say or do cannot alienate “Thanthai Periyar” from the collective and individual consciousness of Tamilians.
The progress of Tamilnadu is directly attributable to his rationalist policies adopted by successive governments here.
Madam you are speaking in… https://t.co/Ezdccqqfot
— Saravanan Annadurai (@saravofcl) March 11, 2025
Meanwhile, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam(TVK) leader Vijay strongly criticised Sitharaman’s statement, questioning the sincerity of her regret over Periyar’s comments.
He argued that if the Union government truly respected Tamil sentiments, it should abandon the push for the three-language policy in Tamil Nadu.
Vijay highlighted Periyar’s broader contributions, noting that he fought against child marriage, supported widow remarriage, and opposed caste oppression.
“More than a century ago, Periyar demanded social justice and proportional representation—issues that are still relevant today,” Vijay said, emphasising the significance of Periyar’s legacy.
Vijay also pointed out that Periyar’s name continues to be invoked in political controversies, demonstrating his lasting influence on Tamil Nadu’s political and social landscape.
“The fact that the Union government brings up Periyar to deflect from its shortcomings shows his undeniable strength in Tamil Nadu,” he remarked.
“Periyar lives on! His ideals will continue to guide Tamil Nadu,” Vijay concluded.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Nitika K Shivani)
