A former Rajya Sabha member, RS Bharathi’s inflammatory comments were made at an event held to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of former DMK chief M Karunanidhi. During his speech, he expressed his frustration with the actions of Tamil Nadu’s Governor, RN Ravi. In direct and unapologetic language, Bharathi criticised the Governor’s role in what he perceived as creating “problems” for the ruling government. He accused the Governor of deliberately obstructing government proceedings by refusing to sign the bills sent to him.
Insensitive Remarks on Nagaland and Its People
However, the most contentious part of Bharathi’s speech was his reference to the people of Nagaland. He stated, “I addressed a gathering about what happened to him [Governor RN Ravi] in Nagaland; they chased him away. Don’t mistake me; I am just quoting an example. The people of Nagaland eat dog meat. If someone who eats dog meat themselves has so much self-respect that they chased away this governor, then imagine how much self-respect Tamils, who consume food with salt, would have. The day he was chased away, the people of Nagaland celebrated it like Deepavali.”
Bharathi’s comments have faced significant backlash, with many condemning his derogatory remarks about the people of Nagaland. Critics argue that his comments are not only offensive but also perpetuate stereotypes and biases against certain communities and cultures. As a public figure, Bharati’s words have been deemed highly insensitive and unacceptable.
In the wake of this controversy, there have been widespread calls forBharathi to issue an apology. Critics assert that his comments reflect a lack of respect for the diversity of cultures and communities within India and that his derogatory statements only serve to deepen divisions.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible and respectful discourse, especially by individuals in influential positions. It underscores the potential consequences of insensitive remarks on intercommunity relations and highlights the need for greater accountability and cultural sensitivity in public discourse.
Nagas eat dogs, and if dog-eaters like Nagas can have self respect then Tamils who eat rice and salt should have much more self respect and pride.
– RS Bharathi @arivalayam’s DMK official spokesperson. pic.twitter.com/jYTtOnfxIB
— Selva Kumar (@Selvakumar_IN) November 5, 2023
His comments in the video prompted a swift response from Governor RN Ravi, who defended the Nagas and condemned Bharathi’s remarks. Taking to social media handle X, TN governor RN Ravi said, “Nagas are brave, honest and dignified people. Thiru RS Bharathi a senior DMK leader publicly insulting them as ‘Dog eaters’ is scurrilous and unacceptable. I urge Bharathi not to hurt a community of which the whole of India is proud.”
“Nagas are brave, honest and dignified people. Thiru R S Bharathi a senior DMK leader publicly insulting them as ‘Dog eaters’ is scurrilous and unacceptable. I urge Mr Bharathi not to hurt a community of which the whole of India is proud.”-Governor Ravi
— LOK BHAVAN, TAMIL NADU (@lokbhavan_tn) November 5, 2023
Bharati’s remarks have drawn widespread criticism, leading to calls for an apology and raising concerns about the sensitivity and cultural understanding of public figures.
Following the criticism of his remarks by Governor RN Ravi, Bharathi provided a clarification to The New Indian Express. He stated, “I concur with his statement that Nagas are brave, and that’s why they chased him away from their state. I meant that if even Nagas could chase him away, then Tamils are certainly capable of doing the same.” Bharati has promised to address the press and offer a more detailed response on the matter.
This is not the first time Bharathi has been embroiled in controversy due to his statements. He has previously made controversial comments about various political figures. For instance, he remarked about former Chief Minister Edapadi K Palaniswamy, saying, “He has forgotten with whose help this man sat on the CM’s chair. Those who kick the ladder that they used for climbing up have never met a good end.” Bharati’s comments on a prominent political figure like M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) also raised eyebrows, suggesting a history of using inflammatory language.
In a speech at an event held at the DMK youth wing headquarters in 2020, Bharathi made insensitive comments implying that individuals from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community became judges solely due to alms provided by the Dravidian Movement. These comments were widely criticised for perpetuating stereotypes and biases.
Response to Governor RN Ravi’s Address
During the customary annual address of Governor RN Ravi at the state assembly,Bharathi allies from the DMK reportedly created a ruckus, leading to certain passages being omitted and the address being cut short. In response to this incident, Bharati commented, “We have several Sekar Babus with us. Even if our leader (Stalin) had made a slight gesture with his eyes, would the governor have gone home?” He went on to suggest that DMK members knew how to respond in such a scenario and implied that they would have taken more aggressive action.
Bharathi’s comments about the people of Nagaland and his history of making inflammatory remarks have elicited strong reactions from various quarters. K. Annamalai, the TN BJP chief, responded to Bharati’s comments about Nagaland, stating, “Northeastern brothers and sisters are being abused by a senior party functionary of DMK… Naga people have a very unique tradition.” Annamalai offered to sponsor 50 tickets for DMK members to visit Nagaland and better understand their culture before making comments about it.
The controversy surrounding Bharathi’s comments highlights the importance of cultural understanding and responsible public discourse. As public figures continue to make insensitive remarks, there is growing demand for accountability and respectful dialogue in the public arena.
#WATCH | Trichy, Tamil Nadu: On DMK leader RS Bharathi's statement, Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai says, "…Northeastern brothers and sisters are being abused by a senior party functionary of DMK…Naga people have a very unique tradition…Whoever from DMK is willing to… pic.twitter.com/Z27KeSQtH0
— ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2023
Taking to X handle, Annamalai said “ recent attack on Raj Bhavan is an outcome of such uncouth speeches against the Hon’ble Governor by MK leaders. Yet DMIK does seem to have learnt the lesson. “Reducing the pride of our North Eastern brothers & sisters to Dog eaters is highly condemnable”.
Before coming to Tamil Nadu , Ravi served as the Governor of Nagaland from 2019 to 2021.
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