At a recent event hosted by his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), actor-turned-part-time politician Vijay criticized the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for including a question in a civil services exam that referred to E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (EVR) by his full name, including the caste-indicative suffix “Naicker.” Vijay described the inclusion as offensive and deeply condemnable.
However, his outrage seems very hypocritic. The Dravidar Kazhagam (DK), the organization founded by EVR and currently run by his ideological successors, continues to publish his full name, including the caste suffix, in their official publication Viduthalai. Notably, as recently as 17 May, the magazine featured an editorial titled “Engum Ramasamy Naicker” (“Ramasamy Naicker Everywhere”).
It’s not just recent incidents — the Dravidar Kazhagam itself often appears to highlight caste identities. For instance, a 2023 article openly celebrated “Naidu–Naicker–Nadar unity,” despite the organization’s frequent claims of being anti-caste and its portrayal of E.V. Ramasamy Naicker as the one who abolished caste in Tamil Nadu. Now, Vijay has emerged as the latest voice buttressing this carefully constructed narrative.
Vijay’s criticism appears inconsistent, as he targets the use of a caste-based suffix by India’s premiere institutions while remaining ignorant about its continued use within ideologically aligned circles.
The irony died a thousand deaths when the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) — EVR’s own ideological heirs — joined in condemning the UPSC on 26 May, despite having recently published content using the same caste-linked title.
This glaring contradiction has reignited debates around selective outrage and the lack of consistency in upholding anti-caste principles.
Speaking at the Chennai event honoring top-performing students from Classes 10 and 12, Vijay appealed to the youth to uphold democratic principles and reject societal divisions. “Democracy gives everyone equal opportunity,” he said. “Tell your families to vote responsibly—choose trustworthy, corruption-free leaders. Don’t allow caste or religion to influence your thinking.”
Drawing a parallel to nature, he said, “The sun and rain don’t discriminate by caste or religion. We must reject such divisions the same way we reject harmful substances.”
Vijay emphasized that democracy thrives on equality and freedom. “A democratic mindset is essential for true liberty in all aspects of life. Caste, religion, and creed should be shunned just like addictive drugs.”
On the UPSC controversy, he reiterated his disapproval, “Even in recent times, attempts are being made to associate casteist labels with Periyar. In the latest UPSC exam, a question was asked that framed him along caste lines. We strongly condemn this.”
#WATCH | #TVK Chief #Vijay urges students to reject caste and religious divisions, saying nature knows no caste. He strongly condemns the #UPSC question on Periyar’s caste.#TVKVijay @actorvijay @TVKVijayHQ pic.twitter.com/Ntpjlgj2aC
— The Federal (@TheFederal_News) May 30, 2025
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