Is Caste Discrimination and Political Hypocrisy Rampant in Tamil Nadu?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Caste discrimination continues to affect various sectors of society.
- Political parties often prioritize caste over a unified Tamil identity.
- Seeman calls for accountability and a genuine approach to social justice.
- The significance of the Tirukkural and its author is often overlooked.
- Archaeological findings like those at Keezhadi should be fully explored to understand Tamil history.
Chennai, July 19 (NationPress) The prominent leader of Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), Seeman, delivered a powerful critique on caste-based discrimination and political hypocrisy during a public assembly in Ponneri on Saturday.
Seeman remarked, "Many claim that caste discrimination is a thing of the past because inquiries about a child's caste are absent during school admissions. However, without tackling the root issues, genuine change remains elusive."
He underscored that caste oppression continues to be prevalent in various societal sectors, including education, religion, and politics.
Referencing the esteemed Tamil scripture Tirukkural, Seeman articulated that it serves as a guiding text for all faiths and communities.
He condemned the hypocrisy surrounding the admiration for Tiruvalluvar, the author of Tirukkural, while simultaneously neglecting and disregarding his descendants.
"The individual who gifted us this invaluable treasure hailed from the lineage of Ayothidasa Pandithar. Yet, today, those who carry that heritage experience neglect and discrimination," he asserted.
He also denounced the ongoing denial of temple access for marginalized groups, holding the government accountable for its failure to uphold social justice principles.
"This is the stark reality under a regime that positions itself as the champion of social justice," he commented.
Seeman pointed out the dominance of caste-specific political organizations, questioning why a party representing Tamils as a unified national identity is absent.
"While various parties cater to distinct castes, where is the party that champions Tamils as a community?" he inquired.
In a critical evaluation of political symbolism, he targeted leaders who only accept garlands from their caste affiliations, branding this behavior as Dravidian ideology.
"This is not authentic Dravidianism; it’s merely casteist glorification in disguise," he declared.
With an eye on the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections, Seeman boldly stated, "If mere dogs and jackals can govern this state, why not a tiger like myself?"
On the matter of religious and cultural identity, he highlighted the irony of venerating Lord Shiva while oppressing his purported descendants.
Additionally, he criticized the selective excavation of the Keezhadi archaeological site, claiming that such partial digging conceals the true extent of ancient Tamil civilization.
"Only a comprehensive excavation will reveal the genuine magnificence of our history," he asserted.
Seeman’s passionate address is part of NTK’s ongoing campaign to rally public support in anticipation of the upcoming elections, with themes of caste, culture, and Tamil identity taking precedence in the party's discourse.