Following the episode where BJP Tamil Nadu President K. Annamalai called out a journalist for his inherent bias, a body which identifies itself to be the Chennai Press Club conducted a protest against Mr. Annamalai’s remarks.
Alleged ‘journalists’ popularly known for towing the DMK line participated in the protest. Shabbir Ahmed, Senior News Editor of The News Minute; former journalist Mani; Lakshmi Subramanian, Senior Correspondent with The Week were a few who were part of the protest.
One of the journalist gave death threats while speaking against Annamalai saying that no matter how much ever influence he has, he won’t be able to survive.
“Vanakkam to BJP’s symbol of disgrace. I can’t talk to his level. If he speaks like that, even we’ve to show that there is someone to talk like that. Else it would mean we’re submissive. Ignorant Annamalai, either learn to talk or come to press club and learn from us on how to talk. Learn Tamil Nadu’s political history. Learn Tamil Nadu’s political background. There have been many leaders who have headed BJP. Nobody talked lacking political civility.”, he said.
He also went on to attack Annamalai family’s goat farming background saying that he should stick to such business in Karur or Shimoga.
The alleged journalist also claimed that they were not the types who would take money and write.
“Annamalai should control his tongue. Else, our pens will pierce or throw papers at you. Annamalai can’t go anywhere. He could be the leader of a big party to which the Indian Prime Minister too belongs. But nobody can save everyone at all points of time. We will surround and hit Annamalai’s car wherever it goes. We know how to hit and give back. We know how to write too.”, the alleged journalist threatened.
“Annamalai, we’re warning you again. Apologize for what you spoke. We had planned to organize this protest at BJP office. But this protest is happening here on the insistance of my colleagues. Annamalai, if not today, we will hit you on some day or the other. We will hit you until you apologize. So, apologize for what you spoke. Else, you won’t be there in the position of BJP Tamil Nadu President.”, the alleged journalist went on to give threats.
“We (journalist fraternity) may have differences but when it comes to protest, Annamalai won’t be able to bear the hard-hit that we give. So, my comrades, let us stand together. What Annamalai spoke was wrong. Annamalai has to realize his mistake and unconditionally apologize. Else, we will throw and pierce pens at Annamalai wherever he goes.”, the alleged journalist concluded.
A section of journalists in Tamil Nadu took to protest against BJP Tamil Nadu chief K. Annamalai in light of his pressmeet where he called out the bias of a journalist and took jibes that he would get his renumeration for the day from DMK.
Click here to subscribe to The Commune on Telegram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.