Karur, Tamil Nadu: Hon’ble MLA and former Tamil Nadu Minister Thiru V. Senthil Balaji strongly condemned the baseless personal attacks made by the opposition, particularly AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, during a press interaction held after inaugurating the ‘Ungaludan Stalin’ special grievance redressal camp in Karur.
Addressing the media, Senthil Balaji stated that the opposition parties have stooped to unacceptable levels by misrepresenting facts and attempting to malign his reputation over the recent Vangal incident in Manmangalam block of Karur district.
“There is no doubt that a tragic incident occurred in Vangal. However, indulging in cheap political stunts over such a sensitive issue is deeply disappointing,” he said.
The MLA was responding to accusations from opposition leaders that the main accused in the Vangal murder case was allegedly associated with the DMK. Denying the claims, Senthil Balaji clarified that the individual in question had previously been aligned with the AIADMK, and photographs now being circulated were being misused to falsely link him to the ruling party.
“He was a member of the AIADMK before joining our fold. Regardless of political affiliation, anyone found guilty will face appropriate legal action. The law will take its course without bias,” he affirmed.
Clarifies Sand Mining Remarks from 2021 Campaign
The DMK leader also addressed AIADMK’s distortion of his 2021 election campaign remarks related to sand collection. Recalling the context, he said his original statement about “collecting sand in 5 minutes” was aimed at supporting bullock cart workers and easing sand availability for local construction needs—not promoting illegal mining, as being falsely interpreted now.
“I had clearly stated that our intent was to allow quicker sand access for those using bullock carts—not for lorries to freely extract sand from rivers. This twisting of facts is nothing but an attempt to divert public attention,” he said.
Background on Vangal Incident
The controversy follows a violent land dispute in Vangal village, near Karur, in which a 47-year-old man lost his life and four others, including two women, were injured. The Vangal Police have arrested eight individuals so far. Leaders from AIADMK and BJP have since attempted to link the accused to the DMK, drawing criticism for politicizing the tragedy.
Senthil Balaji reiterated that the DMK government under Hon’ble Chief Minister Thiru M.K. Stalin remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring justice for all, without favor or prejudice.