Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's gesture targeting MK Stalin in Assembly draws flak from allies

CPI(M) state secretary P Shanmugam condemned the gesture, recalling that Stalin suffered a fractured jaw after being assaulted in custody during the Emergency.

A gesture made by Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay during his speech in the assembly, in which he targeted Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam president MK Stalin, came under scrutiny on Tuesday after some alliance partners of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam strongly objected to it.

Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay said the gesture made during his assembly speech was unintentional and had no ulterior motive. (PTI)

During his speech, Vijay made a gesture apparently mocking Stalin over his detention during the Emergency. During the arrest, Stalin had suffered a fractured jaw after being assaulted by police while in custody.

A video of Vijay touching his right jaw in the assembly was widely shared on social media, triggering a controversy and sharp criticism, including from CPI(M) state secretary P Shanmugam. Vijay, however, clarified on Tuesday that the gesture was “unintentional” and had no “ulterior motive” behind it.

Shanmugam said Vijay’s reply did not address questions raised by members on law and order, and other key issues. “During the Emergency, former CM Stalin was assaulted and his jaw was fractured. Body shaming or making derogatory remarks about someone’s appearance is condemnable,” he said.