Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is facing mounting criticism over his response to media questions regarding the alleged custodial death of Ajithkumar, a 27-year-old temple security guard in Sivaganga district.
While Stalin had earlier spoken with the bereaved family and assured them of strict action, a press interaction on Tuesday, 1 July 2025, has drawn strong reactions from the public and opposition alike. Responding to a reporter’s question about the state’s accountability in cases like Ajith Kumar’s death, the Chief Minister appeared puzzled and asked, “What mistake did they do?” The reporter briefly explained the incident and the non-filing of the FIR, to which Stalin replied, “When we got the information, we took action, we got them arrested, even today, we have taken action against the higher authorities.”
The exchange, perceived by many as indifferent and lacking empathy, has triggered outrage on social media platforms. Several users accused the Chief Minister of responding defensively and downplaying the seriousness of the custodial death. Hashtags such as #JusticeForAjithKumar trended across X, with users questioning the tone and approach of the state’s top leader.
One user wrote, “The way he is responding with no empathy I will divert Atleast 100 votes going to dmk in 2026 who is with me”
The way he is responding with no empathy I will divert Atleast 100 votes going to dmk in 2026 who is with me
— Sachin M (@bsn2404) July 1, 2025
Several others echoed the sentiment.
Can't be worse @CMOTamilnadu
Have a shame!…The way the reporter asked the questions and the kind of answers he gave 🙄😬
Downfall is Near da UP's https://t.co/vI5ACke8EU— ⚡ (@Pr_nnnnn) July 1, 2025
If GOD Exists – Both Of The POLICEMEN & GOVT. Will/Should ROT IN HELL ‼️
Absolutely ZERO GUILT/EMPATHY, In His (CM) REPLY.
Respected @Suriya_offl Anna – Kindly BREAK Your SILENCE & Do VOICE OUT For The AFFECTED FAMILY 🙏🏼#CustodyDeath #JusticeForAjithkumar https://t.co/p1EhgR8yPB pic.twitter.com/mAxGPyDC9P
— Gokul Ram M (@iammgr97) July 1, 2025
If you can't control the beurocracy, party members & ministry.
Then what kind of leader, he is?!!!
Just for namesake or uppuku sappani?! https://t.co/6AsFVgf2O8
— Guru (@nelson_g_mande) July 1, 2025
Anda higher officials mela Enna action eduthu Irukinga..
Avanga kita poi beram pesuna dmk alunga mela ena action eduthinga ?
Summa vilambaram matume panitu irukathu 🤬🤬 https://t.co/39XndNlufh
— LIFE_IS_SHORT (@ontimelif) July 1, 2025
The AIADMK also weighed in, sharply criticizing Stalin’s response. In a post on X, the party wrote, “This is the Chief Minister. The one who claims to have the police under his control. Did you notice the tone of asking, “What wrong are they doing?” If given a chance, he would openly advocate for them. That’s why we say – Puppet Chief Minister @mkstalin!”
இவர் தான் முதல்வர்.
காவல்துறையை தன் கட்டுப்பாட்டில் வைத்திருப்பதாக சொல்பவர்."என்ன தவறு செய்றாங்க" என்று கேட்கும் தொனியைப் பார்த்தீர்களா?
விட்டால் இன்னும் நேரடியாக வக்காலத்து வாங்குவார்.
அதனால் தான் சொல்கிறோம்- பொம்மை முதல்வர் @mkstalin என்று!#JusticeForAjithkumar… pic.twitter.com/m9AZlLLF3R
— AIADMK IT WING – SayYesToWomenSafety&AIADMK (@AIADMKITWINGOFL) July 1, 2025
Despite Stalin’s assurance that action has been taken—including the transfer of Sivaganga SP Ashish Rawat and the arrest of five policemen—the opposition has questioned why such steps were only taken after public pressure mounted.
Meanwhile, the Madras High Court’s Madurai Bench is continuing to monitor the case through suo motu proceedings. The CB-CID has taken over the probe, and a case has been registered under provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
Ajith Kumar had been detained following a complaint by two women about missing gold jewellery. His death in custody, reportedly accompanied by physical injuries, has added to the list of custodial deaths that have rocked the state in recent years.
(With inputs from ANI)
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