The Tamil Nadu BJP has strongly criticized the ruling DMK government, accusing it of suppressing opposition protests and detaining leaders even before scheduled demonstrations. The controversy arose as the BJP had planned a massive protest in front of the TASMAC headquarters, raising concerns about the state’s liquor policy and law enforcement. However, the police allegedly denied permission and took preventive action by arresting leaders before they could reach the protest site.
BJP Mahila Morcha National President Vanathi Srinivasan slammed the DMK, alleging that the government was systematically curbing the right to protest. She highlighted that in the past few months, political parties have been denied permission for lawful agitations even in designated protest locations. According to Srinivasan, BJP leaders were detained from their homes, while others were arrested preemptively. She accused the ruling government of silencing dissenting voices and using the police force as a political tool.
She further stated, “The new practice being adopted by the ruling DMK government is to suppress the voices of political parties that oppose them. During a protest, the authorities have the right to arrest cadres or leaders present at the site, but detaining them at their homes and preventing them from reaching the protest location is completely undemocratic.”
On Monday, BJP Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai also lashed out at the DMK, accusing certain police officials of acting as “stooges” of the ruling party. He criticized the state police leadership, claiming they were prioritizing loyalty to the Chief Minister over maintaining law and order. Annamalai went on to say, “Some officers have become stooges of the DMK. Instead of wearing a police uniform, they might as well wear a DMK party dress. The DGP and Commissioner are more focused on pleasing the Chief Minister rather than ensuring justice.”
He also condemned the detention of female BJP leaders, pointing out that women cannot be held in custody after 6 PM. However, the detained women leaders were held until 7 PM, which he labeled as a serious violation of rights.
The TASMAC liquor issue has been a burning political concern since the DMK came to power. The BJP and other opposition parties have consistently raised questions about liquor policies, governance, and law enforcement surrounding TASMAC outlets. The BJP had planned the protest at the TASMAC headquarters in Chennai, but key leaders such as Soundararajan and Vinoj P Selvam were placed under house arrest, preventing them from participating in the demonstration.
With the political temperature rising in Tamil Nadu, the BJP has vowed to continue its protests against what it describes as DMK’s authoritarian rule. The TASMAC controversy is now shaping up to be a major political flashpoint, with opposition parties intensifying their attacks on the state government’s policies and handling of dissent.
