New Delhi: Tamil actor Ranjith has become the target of controversy following his comments about caste-based murders. Ranjith commented on caste-based murders, when he said that Dalits and other caste people from the underpriviledged sections of society are killed for marrying someone from the elite caste are driven by emotions. He allegedly compared these acts to people's reaction when their belongings like bikes are stolen.
Ranjith on caste-based murders
Ranjith made the said statement after a screening of his recent directorial 'Kavundampalayam' in Salem, Tamil Nadu, on August 9. In a viral video, Ranjith can be heard saying, "These actions stem from emotions. I’ve addressed this in my film as well. When people enter relationships, only parents truly understand the pain it causes them. For example, if your bike is stolen, wouldn’t you chase the thief and beat them up? You’d react similarly if your footwear goes missing. For parents, their children are their lives. So, if something happens that might affect their children’s lives or futures, the parents’ response comes from a place of anger and care. It is not violence or riot. Whatever happens (in such scenarios), whether good or bad, happens because of the (parents’) care for them.”
After Ranjith's statement went viral, many criticised him as they felt his statements alomost defended caste-based murders. Social media users expressed their disaproval about the same and called it 'disappointing'.
However, post the criticism, Ranjith issued a 'clarification' stating that he does not support caste-based murders.
Ranjith's reaction post criticism
He stated, "How could I endorse honour killings? In relationships, whether it’s the boy or the girl, each person is a child to their mother. If their child is harmed, it would understandably bring tears to a mother’s eyes. Violence won’t end in this world. Would killing one person solve anything? Am I so inhumane to believe that? Will any human being support honour killings? I won’t. I don’t even like murders. Sacrificing a life is not something I support. Please don’t say from now on that I support honour killings; I oppose them. In fact, I oppose all forms of killing,” while addressing the media on Sunday.
Ranjith is best known for his role as an antagonist in 'Maru Malarchi' opposite Mammootty. He has alsi won the Tamil Nadu State ilm Award for Best Villain for this performance.