HINDU TERROR IN TAMIL NADU CAN’T BE DENIED: KAMAL HAASAN

CHENNAI: Hindu extremism is alive and kicking in Tamil Na du, actor K am al Haas an said in a news column on Thursday, giving yet another indication of the direction his impending political journey was likely to take.

In a write-up featured in Tamil magazine Ananda Vikatan, Haas an alleged that Hindu out fits were increasingly turning state festivals into public displays of muscle power and violence. “There is Hindu extremism in Tamil Nadu, and you cannot say there is no Hindu terror ,” he said.

The piece was met with widespread condemnation by rightwing groups.

Haasan was answering a query from Kerala chief minister Pin arayi Vi jay an on the increasing influence of the Hindu right on Tamil Na du politics. Responding in the positive, the actor predicted that Tamil Na du would reject the path of extremism and once again turn into a glowing example of social justice. “In the past, Hindu right-wing groups never indulged in violence. Instead, they engaged with opposing parties in a dialogue. But, as this approach proved unsuccessful, Hindu groups began using muscle power to clamp down on detractors,” Haasan said, adding that Kerala had shown how such forms of extremism could be contained.

The BJP, which is trying to expand its footprint in the state, criticised the article and dared Haasan to produce proof to back his“ir responsible, malicious and false propaganda ”.“A superstar like K am al Ha as an should speak with some degree of responsibility. What proof does he have to make such a sweeping comment ?” party spokesperson Na rayanan Ti ru pat is aid.

Tirupati went on to say that Haasan should speak on corruption in the film industry, instead of making “outlandish” claims. Earlier, Hindu rightwing groups engaged with opposing parties in a dialogue. But, as this proved unsuccessful, they began using muscle power to clamp down on detractors. KAMAL HAASAN, actor