The Leader of the Opposition denied wrongdoing and described the police action as politically motivated
Tamil Nadu Police on Tuesday detained Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin shortly after registering a case against him over controversial remarks made during a speech on the Cauvery water dispute, triggering fresh political turmoil in the state.
The controversy erupted after Udhayanidhi, while criticising Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay over the Cauvery issue, made remarks that many interpreted as a veiled reference to actor Trisha. The comments sparked a political firestorm, with opposition parties accusing him of using an objectionable and sexually suggestive innuendo.
Udhayanidhi denies allegations
Reacting to his detention, Udhayanidhi maintained that he had done nothing wrong and insisted that he had not mentioned anyone other than the Chief Minister during his speech.
Describing the police action as politically motivated, he termed it an act of “vengeance” while being escorted in a police vehicle. He also asserted that the matter should ultimately be decided by the courts.
#WATCH | DMK leader and LoP Udhayanidhi Stalin detained by Police from his Chennai residence, following an FIR against him over his alleged defamatory remarks against CM Vijay. Slogans directed at actor Trisha were raised at his rally yesterday. pic.twitter.com/wTM6rABo85
— ANI (@ANI) August 4, 2026
Political backlash intensifies
The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from across Tamil Nadu’s political spectrum, with several parties condemning the language as inappropriate and unbecoming of a public representative.
The controversy has further escalated an already bitter political battle between the ruling establishment and Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), with the actor’s party earlier approaching the National Commission for Women (NCW) seeking action over the remarks.
The latest developments are expected to further intensify the political confrontation in the run-up to the state’s next electoral contest.
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