Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin was granted bail by a Bengaluru court for his controversial remarks likening 'Sanatana Dharma' to diseases such as malaria and dengue. Udhayanidhi's statement, made at a conference in September 2023, stirred significant controversy and condemnation.
The DMK leader appeared before the 42nd Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate in response to a notice issued to him following a petition by social activist Paramesh regarding his statement.
Udhayanidhi Stalin was granted bail on a surety of Rs 1 lakh in the case filed in the Bengaluru court.
ALSO READ: Tamil Nadu Assembly: AIADMK MLAs Suspended For A Day After 'Ruckus' Over Hooch Tragedy
The case has been scheduled for August 8.
The lawyer, representing complainant Dharmapal Gowda, said, "The Court has granted him bail since it is a bailable offence. He has signed a bond by depositing some amount. He has filed application under Section 205 of IPC for exemption, the court has not granted at this stage and court has given opportunity to file objection by the complainant. Udhayanidhi Stalin has approached the SC to club all the cases filed in different parts of the country for hearing at one place."
The case stems from a petition filed by social activist Paramesh, which prompted the court to issue a notice to Udhayanidhi.
Udhayanidhi Stalin, who holds the sports and youth welfare portfolio in Tamil Nadu, is the son of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who also leads the ruling DMK party.
His controversial statement, where he asserted that Sanatana Dharma is against social justice and equality and should be 'eradicated,' sparked widespread condemnation from various quarters. However, Udhayanidhi Stalin continues to oppose 'Sanatana Dharma'.