Why Was M. Karunanidhi's Statue Defaced in Tamil Nadu?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The statue of M. Karunanidhi was vandalized in Salem, Tamil Nadu.
- Protests erupted in response to the act of defacement.
- Authorities are investigating the incident and have increased security.
- The act has drawn criticism from political leaders.
- The statue is revered as a symbol of Tamil Nadu's Dravidian political legacy.
Chennai, July 15 (NationPress) In a shocking act, miscreants have defaced a statue of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi by dousing it with black paint in Tamil Nadu's Salem district, sparking a wave of outrage and unrest among local residents and political supporters. The incident was discovered early in the morning when pedestrians observed the 16-foot-tall bronze statue, prominently situated in front of Anna Park in the city, had been vandalized.
Black paint was evident on the statue's chest and legs, indicating that the act likely took place during the night or in the early hours of Tuesday.
As news of the desecration spread, members and supporters of the DMK party congregated near the statue in large numbers, staging a protest that demanded immediate action against the perpetrators.
Local law enforcement quickly responded to the scene to manage the situation. Senior officials visited the site, evaluated the damage, and reassured the crowd that a comprehensive investigation would be undertaken.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the act was deliberate and intended to provoke political discord. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to identify the individuals responsible.
Officials have stated that multiple teams are being assembled to track down those involved and understand the motives behind this incident.
The vandalism of Karunanidhi's statue, a figure esteemed by many for his extensive service to the state and his influential role in the development of Tamil Nadu's Dravidian political movement, has incited strong rebukes from political figures across the board.
DMK leaders have vehemently condemned the act, labeling it an affront not only to the party but also to the political legacy of Tamil Nadu.
In light of this event, police have intensified security around the statues of political leaders throughout the city to avert any retaliatory actions or additional unrest.
The defaced statue has since been cleaned, and local authorities have begun measures to restore it completely.
A formal case has been filed, and investigations continue.
Authorities have urged the public to uphold peace.