Social Discrimination Still Major Problem In TN: Governor Jabs DMK Over 'Sanatana Dharma' Row

Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Monday took a jab at the DMK over 'Sanatana Dharma' row saying those talking about eradicating Hinduism have a hidden agenda to break this country.

Speaking at an event, the Governor said, "Our Constitution is not against 'dharma' ..it is the people who want to break this country, they have given a distorted interpretation of secularism. We have to understand the true meaning of secularism in our constitution.... those talking about eradicating Hinduism have a hidden agenda to break this country in collaboration with hostile foreign powers,"

Recently, Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin had triggered a controversy after comparing 'Sanatana Dharma' with Dengue and Malaria.

The Governor said that such forces will not succeed as Bharat has inherent strength. "Unfortunately, there is unacceptable social discrimination in our society. We have untouchability and social discrimination. A large section of our brothers and sisters are not treated with equality. It is not what the Hindu dharma says. It is a social evil and it must be eradicated.

He said that social discrimination is a major problem in Tamil Nadu as well. "Every day, I hear stories of our brothers & sisters from Scheduled Castes not being allowed access to temples. In our state, youth are wearing caste bands. A State which taught so much about social justice is exploiting people in the name of caste. We don't hear stories of such discrimination from neighbouring states,"

However, his comments did not go well with DMK's ally Congress. Sivaganga MP Chidambaram said, "The Governor of Tamil Nadu has always sort of comments which are unbecoming of the office he holds. He was a troublemaker in his previous assignment in Nagaland, and he continues to be a troublemaker in Tamil Nadu. I would urge the President to withdraw the pleasure of this Governor and recall him immediately. He always crosses the boundaries of constitutional functionary."

Congress MP Manickam Tagore said that the Tamil Nadu Governor should stop playing politics and "do his work."