The Tamil Nadu State BJP condemned actor-turned-activist Kasturi Shankar on Monday after her remarks on the Telugu-speaking community sparked backlash. Kasturi, who previously campaigned for the BJP, made comments during a protest rally organized by Indu Makkal Katchi (IMK) leader Arjun Sampath. The protest called for a law to protect the Brahmin community similar to the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, which protects Scheduled Castes.During the rally, Kasturi reportedly remarked, “If those who came to serve at the ‘Andhappuram’ of kings speaking Telugu 300 years ago can claim Tamil identity, why not Brahmins who are here for long?” The statement, perceived as targeting the Telugu-speaking community’s identity in Tamil Nadu, quickly stirred controversy.
Although Kasturi is often viewed as a supporter of the Hindu right-wing, the BJP state unit distanced itself from her remarks and expressed strong disapproval.
Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy, BJP co-in-charge for Tamil Nadu, issued a statement condemning Kasturi’s comments and urging her to retract them. He stated that her remarks were unnecessary and risked alienating the Telugu-speaking community, a group with significant cultural and historical ties to Tamil Nadu.
Adding to the criticism, Amar Prasad Reddy, president of the BJP’s State Sports Development Wing, warned that disrespect toward the Telugu-speaking community would not be tolerated. “The Telugu community’s pride and values are deeply intertwined with Tamil Nadu’s heritage. We stand united with them in defending their honour,” he stated. Reddy reiterated the party’s demand for an apology, emphasizing that the BJP values the Telugu-speaking community as an essential part of the state’s social fabric.
Kasturi’s remarks have sparked debate on social media, with many from the Telugu-speaking community voicing discontent and seeking clarification. In Tamil Nadu, where the Telugu-speaking population has historically contributed to the social and cultural landscape, such comments are particularly sensitive.
While Kasturi Shankar has supported Hindu right-wing causes and previously campaigned for the BJP, she is not formally affiliated with any political party. Her activism often touches on issues concerning Tamil identity and social justice, though her stance has sometimes led to controversy.
Kasturi has yet to respond publicly to the BJP’s call for an apology. The controversy underscores the intricate balance required in addressing identity issues in Tamil Nadu, a state that celebrates both its Tamil heritage and the contributions of various communities, including the Telugu-speaking population.
The BJP’s quick response reflects the party’s effort to maintain positive relations with the Telugu-speaking community in Tamil Nadu, as well as to avoid divisive statements that could impact its standing in the region.