Chennai, April 11 — In the wake of mounting criticism over his controversial comments on Shaivism and Vaishnavism, Tamil Nadu Minister and senior DMK leader K Ponmudy has been removed from his role as Deputy General Secretary of the DMK, party president and Chief Minister M K Stalin announced on Friday.
While Stalin did not cite specific reasons for the decision in his official statement, the move follows a political storm triggered by Ponmudy's recent remarks, which drew backlash not only from the opposition but also from within his own party.
The controversy erupted after a video surfaced online showing Ponmudy making allegedly distasteful remarks involving religious references in the context of a sex worker. The video went viral and was widely condemned across social and political circles.
DMK MP Kanimozhi openly criticized Ponmudy, stating on social media platform X, “The recent speech of minister Ponmudy is not acceptable. For whatever reason he had spoken, such vulgar words are condemnable.”
Her public rebuke was lauded by BJP Tamil Nadu Vice-President Narayanan Thirupathy, who called for Ponmudy’s arrest, branding his remarks as disrespectful toward the women of Tamil Nadu. “Minister Ponmudy continuing in his post is shameful... CM Stalin, will you order Ponmudy's arrest?” Thirupathy posted on social media.
Amidst the furore, the BJP intensified its demand for Ponmudy to be removed from the state cabinet, where he currently holds the Forest portfolio. As of now, Ponmudy has not issued a public response to the controversy or to his removal from the party post.
This is not the first time the minister has been embroiled in controversy. He previously courted criticism for linking North Indians to selling pani puri, making a veiled remark on the prevalence of Hindi-speaking street vendors in Tamil Nadu cities like Coimbatore. That comment had also stirred political tensions.
The latest episode is being seen as a significant disciplinary step by the DMK leadership amid growing scrutiny of party leaders’ public conduct. While Ponmudy continues to serve as a minister, his removal from the high-ranking party post signals a serious internal response to controversial rhetoric.
The developments have further heightened political tensions in Tamil Nadu, as parties prepare for upcoming electoral battles and public sentiment remains sensitive around issues of language, religion, and gender respect.
While Stalin did not cite specific reasons for the decision in his official statement, the move follows a political storm triggered by Ponmudy's recent remarks, which drew backlash not only from the opposition but also from within his own party.
Viral Remarks Spark Outrage
The controversy erupted after a video surfaced online showing Ponmudy making allegedly distasteful remarks involving religious references in the context of a sex worker. The video went viral and was widely condemned across social and political circles.
DMK MP Kanimozhi openly criticized Ponmudy, stating on social media platform X, “The recent speech of minister Ponmudy is not acceptable. For whatever reason he had spoken, such vulgar words are condemnable.”
Her public rebuke was lauded by BJP Tamil Nadu Vice-President Narayanan Thirupathy, who called for Ponmudy’s arrest, branding his remarks as disrespectful toward the women of Tamil Nadu. “Minister Ponmudy continuing in his post is shameful... CM Stalin, will you order Ponmudy's arrest?” Thirupathy posted on social media.
BJP Demands Sacking from Cabinet
Amidst the furore, the BJP intensified its demand for Ponmudy to be removed from the state cabinet, where he currently holds the Forest portfolio. As of now, Ponmudy has not issued a public response to the controversy or to his removal from the party post.
This is not the first time the minister has been embroiled in controversy. He previously courted criticism for linking North Indians to selling pani puri, making a veiled remark on the prevalence of Hindi-speaking street vendors in Tamil Nadu cities like Coimbatore. That comment had also stirred political tensions.
Political Repercussions
The latest episode is being seen as a significant disciplinary step by the DMK leadership amid growing scrutiny of party leaders’ public conduct. While Ponmudy continues to serve as a minister, his removal from the high-ranking party post signals a serious internal response to controversial rhetoric.
The developments have further heightened political tensions in Tamil Nadu, as parties prepare for upcoming electoral battles and public sentiment remains sensitive around issues of language, religion, and gender respect.
