Mayiladuthurai: Vaiko Delivers Emotional Speech at Language Martyrs’ Commemoration
In Mayiladuthurai, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam’s revivalist wing organized a grand public meeting to honor the sacrifices of Tamil language martyrs. DMK General Secretary Vaiko attended and delivered an emotional address, recounting key moments from his political journey and strongly condemning recent remarks made by Union Minister Amit Shah.
Saluting the Language Martyrs
Language movements in Tamil Nadu are not just protests—they are a landmark struggle to preserve the identity of the Tamil people. In remembrance of this, a large-scale public gathering was held last night on Chinnakadai Street in Mayiladuthurai under the DMK banner.
The event was presided over by DMK District Secretary Kolanchi. Party leaders and volunteers paid floral tributes to portraits of the language martyrs, honoring their sacrifice.
Memories of Anti-Hindi Struggles under DMK Rule
In his keynote speech, Vaiko elaborated on the history of anti-Hindi agitations. He particularly recalled a major event from his tenure as a Member of Parliament representing the DMK:
"The Central Government planned to amend Article 17 of the Constitution to translate the Indian Constitution into Hindi. In protest, the DMK announced a state-wide burning of legislative copies. At the time, then DMK leader Kalaignar Karunanidhi, concerned that my participation might risk my parliamentary position, removed my name from the protest list to protect me as a party worker."
However, Vaiko continued:
"Despite the leader’s directive, I led the legislative copy-burning protest in Tirunelveli for the welfare of Tamil and out of conviction. Afterwards, I submitted a written explanation for defying the order. That day, I proved that my position is always secondary to the cause of Tamil."
Strong Condemnation of Amit Shah
Recently, Union Minister Amit Shah remarked that the DMK would be wiped out in Tamil Nadu with the upcoming elections. Vaiko strongly criticized this statement. On stage, he said with visible anger:
"Thinking the Dravidian movement can be uprooted from Tamil Nadu is a daydream. How much arrogance must Amit Shah possess to make such statements? Had I been an MP today, I would have confronted him directly in Delhi. His words are a direct insult to the people of Tamil Nadu."
No Place for Communal Forces
Speaking on the political climate in Tamil Nadu, Vaiko stated that communal and divisive forces will never have a foothold in the state. He emphasized that Tamil Nadu will continue to follow the path of social justice laid by Periyar, Anna, and Kalaignar. He added that in the upcoming elections, divisive forces will face a crushing defeat and the DMK-led alliance will return to power with a strong majority.
The event saw participation from District Secretary Kolanchi, state and district leaders, union secretaries, and thousands of volunteers. The meeting concluded with a pledge honoring the sacrifices of the language martyrs.