Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly attempting to incite religious divisions within the state. Speaking at a government function on Friday, December 26, 2025, Stalin asserted that the communal harmony prevalent in Tamil Nadu is a source of "irritation" for the BJP.
Stalin accused the BJP of orchestrating attacks against Christians and their places of worship, with the intention of replicating such incidents in Tamil Nadu. He confidently stated that these attempts would fail, emphasizing the unity of the people of Tamil Nadu. "No matter how many slaves they gather and perform somersaults, they cannot incite religious frenzy among the people of Tamil Nadu who are united," he declared.
Reiterating his commitment to secular governance, Stalin affirmed that under his leadership and the DMK's Dravidian Model government, there would be no tolerance for "politics of religious hatred". He contrasted his administration with the previous AIADMK regime, claiming that Tamil Nadu had suffered greatly during their ten-year rule from 2011 to 2021. Stalin challenged his political rivals to compare their achievements with the progress made under the DMK government.
Stalin's remarks come amidst increasing political activity in Tamil Nadu, with parties like the DMK vying for the support of minority voters, including Christians and Muslims, ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. Other political entities, such as the MDMK and actor Vijay's TVK, have also condemned attacks on Christian places of worship.
The Chief Minister highlighted the various welfare initiatives of his government, including the Kalaignar Women's Rights Scheme, benefiting over 3.18 lakh women in Kallakurichi, and the breakfast scheme, providing benefits to nearly 46,000 students from 741 schools. He also mentioned the Thayumaanavar scheme, the Naan Mudhalvan initiative, and financial assistance for female students, as well as the free bus travel availed by women in the district over 11 crore times.
Stalin pointed to the industrial growth in Tamil Nadu, noting that a significant industrial unit in Ulundurpet has generated employment for approximately 20,000 individuals. He emphasized the state's success in attracting foreign investment and strengthening key sectors like education.
In addition to criticizing the BJP's alleged religious agenda, Stalin has also accused the party of undermining secularism and attempting to impose a homogenized national identity. He lamented what he sees as the BJP's desire to erase diversity and establish an authoritarian future characterized by "one religion, one language, one culture, one election, one party, and one leader".
Earlier in the year, Stalin had accused both the BJP and AIADMK of attempting to divide the people of Tamil Nadu along religious and caste lines. He asserted that the real threat was not to religion but to the NDA alliance.
