‘Sanatana Dharma’ row: FIR against Udhayanidhi Stalin, Priyank Kharge for hurtful religious remarks

‘Sanatana Dharma’ row: Following the remarks by DMK minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sanatana Dharma, which sparked a nationwide row; an FIR was registered against him and Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Tuesday in Uttar Pradesh's Rampur.

The FIR has been registered under Section 153A, 295A Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the two leaders over 'Sanatan Dharma' remarks after a complaint from Advocates.

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The DMK leader Udhayanidhi's remark on Sanatana Dharma sparked massive controversy across the nation with several BJP leaders and Hindu priests strongly criticising his statement.

On being asked about any such example of Sanatan practice, Udhayanidhi Stalin mentioned the incident of President Draupadi Murmu, not being invited to the opening of Parliament.

"Honourable President, Draupadi Murmu was not invited for the opening of the Parliament, that is the best current example," said Udhayanidhi Stalin.

On being asked about the demand for an apology from him, Udhayanidhi refused to reply to the demand.

Cabinet Minister in Government of Karnataka, Priyank Kharge on Monday spoke on Udhayanidhi Stalin's 'Sanatana Dharma should be eradicated' remark and said that any religion that does not promote equality or does not treat you like humans is as good as a disease.

"Any religion that does not promote equality or does not ensure you have the dignity of being human is not religion, according to me... Any religion that does not give equal rights or does not treat you like humans is as good as disease..." said Priyank Kharge.

Udhayanidhi Stalin, earlier on September 2 called for the 'eradication’ of the Sanatan Dharma and equated it with diseases like dengue and malaria, inviting sharp criticism from BJP leaders.

Udhayanidhi Stalin, however, later accused the BJP of ‘twisting’ his statement and spreading fake news while adding that he is ready to face whatever cases are filed against him.

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DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin said that he only criticised Sanatana Dharma adding that BJP is twisting his statement and spreading fake news on this issue.   

Notably, the BJP has demanded an apology from MK Stalin's son. Leaders from the BJP have also blamed the INDIA bloc for Udhayanidhi's remark, claiming such an agenda was discussed during the recent meeting that was held in Mumbai.