Accusation – DMK Students Wing Protests in Chennai Over  Row

Accusation –  Members of the DMK Students Wing gathered in Chennai on Monday to stage a protest demanding action over a controversy involving Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Human Resources Minister Sarath. The demonstration was held near Rajarathinam Stadium after a video circulating widely on social media triggered fresh political debate. Protesters called for an investigation and sought the minister’s arrest, alleging that the footage raised serious questions about his conduct during an Indian Premier League (IPL) match held in Chennai two years ago.

Viral Video Sparks Political Dispute

The controversy began after a video spread across social media platforms, allegedly showing Sarath handling a white powdered substance while attending an IPL match. In the clip, he appears to crush the powder on the screen of a mobile phone using a debit card, with a Rs 500 currency note visible nearby. The video was reportedly shared through Sarath’s own Instagram story with the caption “Thug Life,” leading to widespread discussion and criticism.

Minister Rejects Drug Allegations

Responding to the claims, Sarath firmly denied any involvement with illegal substances. In a clarification video, he explained that the powder seen in the footage was medicine intended for his child, who was unwell at the time. According to the minister, he had crushed the medication to make it easier for the child to consume, insisting that the allegations circulating online were false and misleading.

DMK Questions Government’s Response

Speaking to reporters during the protest, former Tamil Nadu Health Minister M. A. Subramanian said the DMK had officially informed the authorities in advance about the planned demonstration. He argued that the administration should have allowed the protest instead of restricting it and accused the government of discouraging democratic expression.

Subramanian further alleged that the state’s law and order situation had weakened over the past month. Referring to the viral video, he questioned whether the government intended to conduct a fair inquiry into the matter. He also claimed that public confidence could only be restored through transparent action.

Reference to Earlier Anti-Drug Campaigns

The senior DMK leader recalled that during the previous government led by M.K. Stalin, awareness campaigns against drug abuse were regularly conducted across the state. He said the current administration should clearly explain its position regarding the controversy and ensure that any allegations linked to drug use are examined without political bias.

Subramanian also criticised the police response to the protest, stating that peaceful demonstrations should not be treated as law-and-order threats. According to him, this was the second protest organised by the party on the issue, and he indicated that further demonstrations could be held if their concerns remained unanswered.

Police Action Draws Fresh Criticism

DMK spokesperson Saravanan also questioned the police handling of the protest. He alleged that permission for the Students Wing demonstration had been denied despite prior notification to the authorities. According to him, several party workers involved in putting up banners and preparing the protest venue were detained during the night.

Saravanan further claimed that Students Wing members arriving at the protest site were being taken into custody one after another. He maintained that the party’s objective was to seek accountability over the viral video and urged the authorities to permit peaceful democratic protests without unnecessary restrictions.

The incident has added another layer to the ongoing political contest in Tamil Nadu, with both sides presenting sharply different versions of the events surrounding the viral video. While the opposition continues to demand legal action and an independent investigation, the minister has maintained that the allegations are baseless and has defended his explanation regarding the contents shown in the footage.