In a major political development, DMK member Ezhil Arasan has announced his resignation from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), citing dissatisfaction with the party’s treatment of Dalits and the lack of importance given to their issues. Arasan, who previously served as the Deputy Coordinator of the Information Technology team in the Salem Central District Corporation and is currently a Union representative, revealed his decision in a press release issued on 4 February 2025. He also cited the growing emphasis on working for Inbanidhi, the son of DMK scion and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, as the reason for his decision. Inbanidhi is also the grandson of Chief Minister MK Stalin.
Ezhil Arasan (35), who hails from Boominaickenpatti near Omalur in Salem district, made the announcement about his resignation from the party.
In a statement shared on his social media, he wrote, “I, the former deputy coordinator of the IT team in Salem Central District DMK and current union representative, am resigning from all party responsibilities, including basic membership, for the following reasons.”
He continued, stating that under the DMK’s leadership, Dalits were not receiving adequate protection or priority within the party. He mentioned that the party’s treatment of issues, like the act of putting up banners and posters for his grandson, was a clear example of this lack of concern. “We cannot accept this situation,” he remarked. “Hence, I will no longer continue in this party.”
As per The Hindu Tamil, Arasan provided additional details about his long-standing association with the party, which began in 2015 when he joined as a basic member and took on several roles. He mentioned that despite repeatedly asking for solutions to the party’s internal issues, no action was taken. “I have been ignored, and my concerns remain unanswered,” he said.
சேலம் MP திமுகவில் இருந்து விலகல்.!
பேரனுக்கு பேனர் வைக்கவும் போஸ்டர் ஒட்டும் நிலை வெகு தொலைவில் இல்லை இதற்கு நாங்கள் தயாராக இல்லை..!
செருப்படி..🔥 pic.twitter.com/JRxjcweBsM
— Aravind Kathiravan (@RanipetAravind) February 4, 2025
Arasan also criticized the rapid rise of Udhayanidhi, who, in a short period, transitioned from acting in films to high positions within the party, including youth wing secretary, MLA, minister, and deputy chief minister. He felt that senior party leaders like Durai Murugan and E.V. Velu were sidelined, and the lack of respect for long-serving members like himself was evident. Additionally, he was disheartened by the emphasis on Inbanidhi as an external force, which he felt disturbed many longtime supporters. He also shared his disappointment over the disregard shown to the Collector during the Jallikattu competition in Madurai.
Reflecting on his frustrations, Arasan expressed that he would no longer be able to contribute to the party’s future endeavors. He warned that many more, especially from rural areas, might follow suit and resign from the DMK. Arasan’s resignation marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu, with concerns over Dalit rights and representation especially within a party like the DMK which has claimed it has achieved “social justice” and “eradicated caste”!
(With inputs from Hindu tamil)
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