An AIADMK-led alliance protest was held in Dindigul against the DMK government, citing rising sexual violence, drug circulation and deterioration of law and order.
During the demonstration, former minister and AIADMK treasurer Dindigul Srinivasan alleged that DMK workers were trying to influence elections with money and gifts, referring to items such as a hot box and sarees. He then made a quip suggesting women were asking, “You gave a saree—what about the skirt?”, a remark that has triggered controversy.
While AIADMK women’s wing members present at the venue were reported to have laughed at the comment, women’s organisations and various sections have strongly condemned the statement as inappropriate.
The party’s IT wing, according to the report, expressed frustration that the remark added to recent controversies, noting that another former minister’s comments about actor Nayanthara had already become an issue.
Separately, Srinivasan told reporters in Dindigul that O Panneerselvam had “destroyed” the AIADMK founded by M G Ramachandran, and questioned whether Panneerselvam had been “appointed by God” to roles such as chief minister, deputy chief minister and coordinator. The remarks reportedly surprised party members, as the AIADMK has been projecting confidence about forming the next government.
