Chennai — MDMK General Secretary and MP Vaiko condemned Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) founder Seeman for his recent remarks against Dravidian ideologue E.V. Ramasamy. Vaiko, whose party is an ally of the ruling DMK and part of the INDIA bloc, accused Seeman of making “slanderous comments against the Dravidian movement and its prominent leader Periyar.”

Vaiko criticized Seeman’s behavior, saying he “acts like a joker” and displays “arrogance” when asked to provide evidence for his claims. He noted the growing opposition to Seeman’s comments, including protests by various parties and multiple cases filed across Tamil Nadu.

The MDMK leader pointed to the Madras High Court bench in Madurai’s directive to the Anna Nagar police to submit a report on the matter by Jan. 20. He expressed concern over Seeman’s continued provocative statements despite legal action, alleging they aim to disrupt social harmony and incite lawlessness. Vaiko urged the government to take decisive action against Seeman, emphasizing the need for punishment to serve as a deterrent.

Meanwhile, Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) President Anbumani Ramadoss, while refraining from directly referencing Seeman, asserted his party’s intolerance for any slander against Periyar. He highlighted Periyar’s instrumental role in securing increased reservation quotas, stating that “When Kalaignar (M. Karunanidhi) initially refused to increase the reservation to 31%, Periyar pressured the government to concede.” Anbumani acknowledged Periyar as the PMK’s ideological guide, emphasizing that while critique of Periyar’s ideology is permissible, slandering him is unacceptable.

Seeman faces nearly 60 cases filed across various districts in Tamil Nadu following his controversial remarks about Periyar made during an event in Vadalur, Cuddalore district. These remarks have sparked widespread protests and led to complaints by political party members in districts including Cuddalore, Madurai, Coimbatore, Dindigul, and Tirunelveli. Dravida Kazhagam members in Thanjavur also filed a police complaint Thursday, demanding Seeman’s arrest for allegedly attempting to defame Periyar and his ideology, thereby disturbing public peace in Tamil Nadu.