Udhayanidhi Stalin, Leader of Opposition and DMK MLA, called for the eradication of "Sanathanam" during a speech in the Tamil Nadu Assembly [1].

The remarks highlight a deepening ideological conflict within the state's political landscape regarding religious and social structures. Such statements often trigger intense debate over the balance between secular governance and the protection of traditional beliefs.

Speaking Tuesday, April 8, 2026, Stalin addressed the legislative body in Chennai [2]. He said that the ideology of Sanathanam separates people and should be eradicated [1]. According to the speaker, this move is necessary to promote unity and political civility among the population [3].

During the proceedings, Stalin said, "Sanathanam, which separated people, should be eradicated" [1]. The call for eradication was framed as a means to remove social divisions that the MLA believes are inherent to the system [3].

The address took place within the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, where the Leader of Opposition frequently challenges the current social and political status quo [2]. The specific focus on Sanathanam reflects a broader effort by the DMK to align the state's social policies with its ideological roots of social justice, and anti-caste movements [3].

No specific legislative actions were proposed during the speech, but the rhetoric emphasizes a desire for a fundamental shift in how social identity is managed in the region [2]. The assembly session served as the platform for these claims, positioning the issue of social division at the center of the political discourse [1].

“"Sanathanam, which separated people, should be eradicated."”

This rhetoric signals a continuation of the DMK's historical commitment to social reform and the dismantling of traditional hierarchies in Tamil Nadu. By targeting Sanathanam in a formal legislative setting, the Leader of Opposition is framing a social and religious critique as a necessary step for political civility, likely aiming to consolidate a voter base centered on Dravidian identity and social equality.