TN Minister Duraimurugan Issues Public Apology Over Disability Remarks After Ponmudi’s Ouster As DMK Dy Secy

TN Minister Duraimurugan's apology has also come at a time when Minister Ponmudi was removed as DMK deputy general secretary following his offensive remarks on "prostitute" and religious orientation.

Duraimurugan acknowledged the misstep in a public note, saying he was deeply affected upon realising the impact of his words.

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Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister Duraimurugan has issued an unconditional apology after facing backlash for his remarks referring to persons with disabilities during a recent public address. The Minister’s statement, deemed insensitive by several disability rights groups, triggered widespread criticism and formal complaints. TN Minister Duraimurugan's apology has also come at a time when Minister Ponmudi was removed as DMK deputy general secretary following his offensive remarks on "prostitute" asking about religious orientation to decide on "position".

Duraimurugan Apologises 

Duraimurugan acknowledged the misstep in a public note, saying he was deeply affected upon realising the impact of his words. “Kalaignar, who always referred to people with physical disabilities with compassion, set an example by introducing the words 'Maatruthiranaali' (Differently-able people). However, during a speech, I mistakenly used an outdated term. When our party leader Thalapathy [MK Stalin] pointed this out, I was shocked and saddened,” he said.

He continued, “It was a grave mistake for someone nurtured by Kalaignar to make such an error. I sincerely apologize to the differently-abled community and assure them that such a lapse will not happen again.”

His apology comes in the wake of protests from multiple disability rights organisations.

Protest By Disability Rights Organisations

Nethrodaya, a Chennai-based non-profit working for the empowerment of visually challenged individuals, filed a complaint with the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) in New Delhi, urging action against the Minister’s remarks.

Deepaknathan, President-December 3 Movement, said, "Leaders in responsible positions to mend their tones& tenor,in addressing disability or disability as anology in idiom& phrases or otherwise.This is more to leaders from fraternity of social justice.Must develop insight that social justice without disability justice is incomplete." 

I am reposting because, its not only for disability but also for all vulnerability sector! Let leaders in responsible position be responsible !!! https://t.co/fwMsfQkmih

— பேராசிரியர் தீபக்நாதன் , Prof Deepaknathan (@Deepak_TMN) April 11, 2025