DMK MP Apologizes for Controversial Remark on BJP's Electoral Success in States Associated with 'Gau Mutra

On Tuesday, a considerable uproar ensued following remarks by DMK MP Senthil Kumar, asserting that the BJP exclusively prevails in elections within the "Gau Mutra (cow urine)" states, alluding to the Hindi heartland.

Recent triumphs for the BJP were noted in the Assembly elections of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh.

During a Lok Sabha debate on two Bills concerning Jammu and Kashmir, Senthil Kumar remarked, "The people of this country should know that the power of the BJP is only confined to winning elections in the Hindi heartland states or what we generally call ‘gau mutra’ states."

The DMK MP continued, stating, "You (BJP) cannot make inroads into South India. Observe the outcomes in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. We maintain substantial influence in those regions."

"We won't be astonished if you transform all these states into Union Territories to indirectly assume control because setting foot there and gaining control of the southern states is an inconceivable dream," he added.

However, following backlash from the BJP and other parties, Senthil Kumar issued an apology on X for his statement.

Congress MP Karti Chidambaram also criticized the DMK leader's language, deeming it "very unfortunate" and "unparliamentary." Chidambaram insisted that Senthil Kumar promptly apologize and retract his comments.

These comments from the DMK leader emerged amidst political leaders characterizing the recent Assembly election results as a 'North-South divide' following the BJP's victory over the Congress in the Hindi heartland states, while the Congress secured a win only in Telangana.

In response, BJP Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao urged the Tamil Nadu Government to file a case against state ministers for delivering "hate speeches" against Sanatan Dharma and demanded their removal from office.

(With Agency Inputs)