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Dravidian Model: DMK MP Kalanidhi Veerasamy Takes Pride In Belonging To Kamma Caste

The Commune
DMK MP Veerasamy and TN CM MK Stalin

Is the Dravidian model not applicable to DMK MP Veerasamy who gloated about his Kamma caste identity?

DMK MP Kalanidhi Veerasamy, representing North Chennai, has ignited a controversy in Tamil Nadu regarding the influence of Telugu people in the state’s political sphere. His statements sparked debates on social media, questioning the DMK’s stance on social justice regarding caste, juxtaposed with its involvement in what appears to be caste-driven political dynamics.

An international convention of the Kamma community, organized by the Kamma Global Federation (KGF), commenced on 20 July 2024 at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre and lasted two days. It aimed to unite Kammas, a dominant caste from Telugu-speaking states. The event also sought to engage them in constructive dialogue and work towards the community’s upliftment within Telugu states and globally.

The event drew participation from various politicians and celebrities from states such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the US, and other countries. Notably, DMK MP Kalanidhi Veerasamy’s attendance at the convention raised eyebrows, highlighting a perceived inconsistency, given the DMK’s and its ideological parent, the Dravidar Kazhagam’s staunch opposition to the caste system.

Veerasamy began his speech by expressing gratitude to all the distinguished participants at the conference. Notable guests included Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Telangana Roads & Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, and KGF president Jetti Kusuma Kumar. He then wryly recounted a conversation with Revanth Reddy, where the latter questioned the relevance of caste, given the DMK’s avowed stance against it.

He recounted, “When I was invited to the event, upon my arrival, Revanth Reddy asked me, ‘You’ve come from Tamil Nadu, where is your caste? You all claim there is no caste, right?’ like that. Indeed, there are significant numbers of Kammas and Telugu people. The Telugu community forms a robust 40% of the population. For instance, we have the renowned scientist GD Naidu in Coimbatore, whose developments have transformed the area into an industrial hub. As our elders here have emphasized, the Kamma community in Tamil Nadu supports its members and contributes to society at large. For example, Genguswamy Naidu has established numerous schools and colleges, benefiting students across the region.”

Afterwards, he discussed the DMK government’s initiatives that have benefited ordinary citizens in Tamil Nadu. Kalanidhi Veerasamy then expressed pride in the fact that Tamil Nadu hosted the largest Kamma community in India. He also commended the dance performers for showcasing the Andal dance on stage.

The DMK MP’s participation in a caste-related event has sparked substantial criticism since the party professes to be non-casteist in its politics. Yet, its leaders exhibit caste pride at such gatherings.

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