Chennai, Feb 7: Tensions flared in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday during Question Hour as Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP TR Baalu sparked controversy by criticizing Union Minister L Murugan. The incident occurred during discussions on damages caused by natural disasters, with Baalu questioning the government’s response to heavy rainfall and flooding in Chennai and its suburbs, as well as in South Tamil Nadu in December.According to reports, Baalu called Murugan “unfit to be a minister” during his remarks, prompting a heated exchange between the DMK MP and other members of Parliament, including Union ministers Pralhad Joshi and Arjun Ram Meghwal. The situation escalated as Murugan, who also hails from Tamil Nadu, responded to Baalu’s comments, alleging that they were derogatory and insulting to his community and himself.
Union Minister Meghwal condemned Baalu’s remarks, describing them as an insult to the Dalit community, to which Murugan belongs. He demanded an apology from Baalu, accusing him of targeting Murugan based on his caste identity. Meghwal also claimed that the Congress party supported Baalu’s actions, further escalating tensions within the Parliament.
In response, Murugan criticized the DMK, accusing them of intolerance towards a minister from a marginalized community. He characterized Baalu’s comments as derogatory and unparliamentary, reflecting broader tensions between political parties in Tamil Nadu.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) joined the chorus of condemnation, demanding an apology from Baalu for his remarks. They criticized the Congress for allegedly supporting Baalu’s actions, further fueling the political divide over the incident.