Former Madras High Court Justice K Chandru, known for his Dravidianist views, took center stage at the December 6 launch of Ellarukumana Thalaivar Ambedkar, a book by actor-turned-politician Vijay. Chandru replaced VCK leader Thirumavalavan, whose absence sparked political speculation, drawing criticism over the appropriateness of Chandru’s involvement given his divisive rhetoric and past casteist remarks.
Ellarukumana Thalaivar Ambedkar
On 6 December 2024, Vijay, the president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and actor-turned-politician, released a book titled “Ellarukumana Thalaivar Ambedkar” (Ambedkar: a Leader for All). The detailed work published by Vikatan was spearheaded by TVK General Secretary Aadhav Arjuna. Initially, VCK leader Thirumavalavan was expected to receive the book and deliver a speech. However, Thirumavalavan chose not to attend, sparking political speculation about possible behind-the-scenes influence from the DMK.
In an unexpected turn, the event saw the controversial former Justice of the Madras High Court, K. Chandru, replacing Thirumavalavan as the guest of honor.
'எல்லோருக்குமான தலைவர் அம்பேத்கர்' என்ற நூலை வெளியிடுகிறார் விஜய் #Ambedkar | #TVKVijay | #Vijay pic.twitter.com/mbg34wgTzf
— PuthiyathalaimuraiTV (@PTTVOnlineNews) December 6, 2024
Former Justice of Madras High Court, Chandru, who has been at the center of controversy following his involvement in the Dravidianist propaganda movie ‘Jai Bhim’, known for his vocal opposition to the central government and his strong alignment with the DMK. His political views and support for Dravidian ideologies have often led to criticisms, particularly his proposals aimed at eradicating caste distinctions in schools. Under the guise of his role in the ‘One Man Commission,’ Chandru controversially recommended measures that appeared to specifically target Hindu practices among students, such as the removal of spiritual symbols like the sacred ropes tied around their wrists, wearing Vibuthi among others.
What is even more alarming is that when we think of Dr. Ambedkar, we remember a man who fought tirelessly to eradicate caste-based discrimination. However, in contrast, the retired justice, instead of working towards dismantling caste, has aligned himself with Dravidianist ideologies and promoted divisive rhetoric, particularly targeting one community. For instance, in the past, he has made casteist and sexist remarks about Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in his social media posts.
In a Facebook post, former Judge of the Madras High Court had commented that Annamalai is making a route for a Rajya Sabha seat through Karnataka just like “Oorugaai Ammaiyaar” – a casteist and a sexist reference to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Brahmin and woman identity.
Oorugaai Ammaiyaar in Tamil means “a woman who makes pickles”. This reference is used because it is said that women from Tamil Brahmin community make good pickles.
It is not just a casteist reference but is also sexist and highly misogynistic that indirectly implies that women from Brahmin commmunity are good for only making pickles.
Following this, many on social media called out the casteist and sexist mindset who had once wielded the pen of justice.
Social commentator and political analyst Banu Gomes said that these people don’t realize that their comments are actually appreciations. “It is challenging to make traditional pickles year after year without the change in taste. It is an activity that requires science, accounting, accuracy, purity, and sharpness. So, every time someone mentions calls her (FM Nirmala Sitharaman) ‘Oorugaai Ammaiyaar’ it is a complement to her’.
Given his controversial stance on these issues, the decision to invite him to launch a book on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar raised eyebrows. Many saw it as a significant misstep, with critics arguing that the choice to feature someone with such a politically charged history undermined the significance of the book and its message.
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