Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) president K Selvaperunthagai has demanded an apology from BJP state president K Annamalai for allegedly calling him a history-sheeter. If Annamalai fails to apologize, Selvaperunthagai plans to file a case against him for defamation, character assassination, and under sections of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.Annamalai reportedly referred to Selvaperunthagai as a rowdy and a history-sheeter during his visit to the home of murdered BSP state president K Amstrong on Monday.
Selvaperunthagai addressed reporters in Chennai, highlighting the defamatory nature of Annamalai’s comments. He questioned whether Annamalai was aware that his speech could be classified as hate speech and defamation, punishable under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
Selvaperunthagai emphasized that Annamalai’s remarks could be prosecuted under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, urging him to consult his legal advisors. He revealed that several Dalit leaders had been contacting him since early Tuesday morning, urging him to file a complaint with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes. He noted the strong presence of the state commission for SC/ST in Tamil Nadu.
Selvaperunthagai has given Annamalai a clear ultimatum to apologize for his remarks or face legal consequences. The TNCC chief’s firm stance underscores the seriousness of the issue and the potential legal ramifications for Annamalai’s statements.