After K Ponmudi, a minister from the Tamil Nadu-based DMK party, made inflammatory remarks against Hinduism at a public event, BJP leader Amit Malviya criticized him for his divisive rhetoric. Referring to sacred Hindu symbols in a vulgar manner, Ponmudi's remarks were not only offensive but deliberately insulting to the core beliefs of two Hindu sects. Malviya also highlighted how this was not Ponmudi's first brush with controversy, as he has previously made derogatory comments about Hindi speakers in Tamil Nadu. He then went on to criticize opposition parties for their alleged tendency to engage in minority appeasement politics and disrespect the majority community.
The recent decision by Tamil Nadu Governor Ravi to not reinstate K Ponmudi, whose conviction was stayed by the Supreme Court in a disproportionate assets case, has caused a stir as he faces backlash from the three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud. Amidst concerns over the prevalence of drugs on campuses, the Governor cited concerns from worried parents as one of the reasons for his decision. However, this move has sparked discussions on the actions of governors in terms of federal relations in the country.
Tamil Nadu Minister Rajakannappan has been given the additional portfolio of Higher Education after Minister Ponmudi was convicted in a DA case. Rajakannappan is already handling multiple portfolios and will now take on the responsibilities of Higher Education as well. The Madras High Court announced the verdict on Thursday, imposing a fine of Rs 50 lakh on the convicted Minister and his wife.