At the launch of Ambedkar: A Leader for All in Chennai on December 6, 2024, DMK Minister Sekar Babu called actor-politician Vijay an “intelligent illiterate” after the TVK chief’s scathing critique of the DMK government. Vijay accused the ruling party of failing Dalit communities and relying on coalition politics for electoral gains, warning of repercussions in the 2026 elections. The heated exchange, coupled with a controversy over an incorrect map of India displayed at the event, overshadowed discussions on Ambedkar’s legacy
The book Ambedkar: a Leader of All was launched in Nandambakkam, Chennai, on 6 December 2024. Ambedkar’s grandson, Anand Teltumbde, received the first copy, and retired High Court Justice Chandru received the second copy.
During the event, actor-turned-politician Vijay addressed the audience, directing strong remarks at the ruling DMK party. “To the anti-people rulers who rely solely on coalition numbers and boast, ‘We will win 200 (seats)’ without hesitation… I, along with my people, sending a warning. The coalition tactics you are desperately protecting for your selfish interests will be given rejected by the people in 2026,” he said.
In response, DMK’s HRCE Minister Sekar Babu indirectly criticized Vijay’s comments with sharp words. “A few ‘intelligent illiterates’ who have not even stepped onto the ground, are claiming that the hopes of winning 200 seats in the upcoming assembly elections will be shattered. Our objective is not just win 200, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) will win all 234 seats in the upcoming elections for sure,” Sekar babu declared.
He added, “Whenever slanders are thrown at the DMK, it only accelerates our progress. Like an arrow from a bow, the DMK, which is already moving at 80 km/h, will increase its speed to 100 km/h. Our journey will not slow until our leader takes the throne in 2026.”
#JUSTIN || களத்திற்கு வராத தற்குறி விஜய் – அமைச்சர் சேகர்பாபு காட்டம் #MinsterSekarBabu | #Ambedkar | #TVKVijay | #VijaySpeech | #AadhavArjuna | #VCK | #EllorukumanaThalaivarAmbedkar | #PolimerNews pic.twitter.com/JcIqkdqFUf
— Polimer News (@polimernews) December 7, 2024
This heated exchange comes against the backdrop of TVK chief Vijay launching a scathing critique of the ruling DMK government, accusing them of failing to uphold Ambedkar’s vision for social justice. He lamented the plight of Dalits, stating, “If Ambedkar were alive today, he would hang his head in shame,” pointing to the continued marginalization of Dalit communities.
Vijay specifically criticized the Tamil Nadu government for its inaction in the Vengaivayal incident, where the drinking water meant for a Dalit community in Pudukottai district was reportedly contaminated in a caste-based hate crime. “The government (DMK) does not seem to have taken any action,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for a government that prioritizes people’s welfare over alliance politics.
In a pointed remark aimed at the ruling DMK’s coalition with VCK, Vijay accused the government of being overly reliant on “alliance arithmetic” while neglecting the welfare of citizens. He predicted that such governments would face the consequences in the 2026 state elections.
Vijay’s fiery speech resonated with the audience, drawing cheers and applause as he called for a political transformation rooted in justice and equality, aligning with Ambedkar’s ideals. However, the map controversy overshadowed the event’s intended focus, sparking national debate about accountability in representing India’s territorial integrity.
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