Chennai, Dec 21 (NationPress) In a forceful declaration, Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad has vehemently criticized the ruling DMK, accusing senior leadership of undermining Hindu beliefs and attempting to politicize religious identities for their electoral advantage.

Prasad referenced Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin’s earlier comments at Christian events -- first in 2022 and more recently in Madurai -- asserting that the DMK has transitioned from its traditional rationalist position to one that selectively adopts religious rhetoric.

The BJP leader highlighted Udhayanidhi’s prior admission of his Christian faith and subsequent statements equating Christian values with DMK ideology, raising significant questions about the party’s proclaimed secular principles.

While the BJP spokesperson emphasized that his party holds all religions in respect and has no issues with acknowledging the virtues of any faith, he characterized Udhayanidhi’s comments as politically driven, accusing the DMK of blurring ideological lines for electoral benefits.

He further contended that the juxtaposition of Christian teachings with DMK principles seems to contradict the party’s historic opposition to temple customs and Hindu practices.

Prasad also criticized what he referred to as the “dynastic nature” of DMK leadership, arguing that while Udhayanidhi underscores the egalitarian message of Jesus Christ, the party itself limits leadership opportunities to members of the Karunanidhi-Stalin lineage.

Extending his critique, Prasad addressed Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P.K. Sekar Babu, accusing him of mismanaging temple affairs and referencing controversies related to temple governance and legal disputes.

Prasad asserted that the DMK government’s actions -- particularly regarding traditional observances at Thiruparankundram -- have alienated significant numbers of Hindu followers and fostered avoidable conflicts.

He condemned what he termed as the “political appropriation” of religious symbols, citing remarks that linked Lord Murugan with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Such statements, he argued, disrespect religious sentiments and could heighten tensions.

According to Prasad, recent events indicate a broader shift in public sentiment, with Hindu devotees increasingly vocal in their opposition to perceived interferences in religious traditions.

He forecasted that discontent among these communities might play a crucial role in the forthcoming elections.

In conclusion, Prasad urged the DMK leadership -- particularly Udhayanidhi Stalin -- to clarify their religious stance and respond to claims of inconsistency between ideology and practice. He asserted that transparency is vital to preventing further erosion of trust between the government and segments of the Hindu community.