In a sharp escalation of political rhetoric, the Tamil Nadu unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a scathing attack on the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government. The BJP accuses the state administration of permitting pro-Iran demonstrations despite explicit security advisories from the central government.
Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad issued a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, highlighting the DMK’s decision to allow protests organized by its allies, including Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and left-wing parties. These events took place on March 1 in Chennai, protesting alleged US-Israel attacks on Iran.
Reports indicate that protesters attempted to march towards the US Consulate in the city, raising serious concerns about public safety. Prasad pointed out the timing: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a visit to Tamil Nadu, coinciding with a February 28 alert from the Ministry of Home Affairs urging states to remain vigilant amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
“The Government of India’s stance represents 140 crore Indians. No regional party can undermine national unity for electoral gains,” Prasad asserted. He warned that such gatherings could disrupt communal harmony and law and order in the state.
The BJP leader criticized VCK chief Thol. Thirumavalavan and left parties for their “selective outrage,” noting their silence on issues affecting Indians and Hindus abroad while vocally condemning attacks on Iran. Prasad labeled this as classic vote-bank politics.
In a direct appeal, the BJP has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to issue firm directives to Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, and Director General of Police to enforce strict law and order measures.
Neither the DMK nor its allies have issued an official response to these allegations yet. Coalition leaders have previously defended peaceful protests on international issues as a democratic right and legitimate political expression.
This controversy unfolds against a backdrop of heightened global tensions following military developments in West Asia, with security advisories issued across several Indian states. The incident underscores deepening political divides in Tamil Nadu, where national security concerns clash with regional political freedoms.