Urdu-speaking Deccani (Dakhni) Muslim groups in Tamil Nadu have expressed dissatisfaction with the DMK, alleging that key community concerns have not been addressed since the party came to power.
Office-bearers of a Deccani Muslim federation said the functioning of the Waqf Board has “deteriorated” and claimed that even a permanent chief executive officer has not been appointed, which they say has fuelled resentment among Muslims.
They also alleged that the DMK projects an impression of broad Muslim support by keeping a few Muslim parties close, while those parties remain silent due to election funding. The groups said Deccani Urdu speakers—estimated at 1.7% of the state’s population—feel sidelined despite having supported the DMK’s victories in about 12 constituencies across regions including North Arcot districts, Coimbatore, Salem and Chennai.
According to the federation representatives, the community lacks political and administrative representation, and no special schemes have been announced for Urdu schools. They further claimed that under the banner of a two-language policy, Urdu has been reduced to the status of an optional language subject, and said they are not ready to place their trust in the DMK this time.
The report also notes that Sunni Muslims had earlier turned against the DMK government over the appointment of a chief Haj official whom they consider opposed to their mode of worship. With Deccani Muslim organisations now also voicing opposition, the DMK is said to be struggling to manage the discontent.
