BJP removes Muruganandam from party posts over harassment complaint from woman functionary

CHENNAI: BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran on Friday removed Karuppu M Muruganandam from all party positions with immediate effect, following a complaint by a woman party functionary alleging harassment, coercion and intimidation.

Divya Sheshadri, BJP OBC Secretary, had lodged the complaint seeking a time-bound inquiry into allegations of physical abuse, harassment, coercion, intimidation and threats against Muruganandam. She had also sought his suspension pending the inquiry and appropriate action if the allegations were established.

In her complaint, Divya alleged that Muruganandam had represented that he would marry her, was named as guardian in her wards' school records and had assured her support for her candidature from Srirangam in the 2026 Assembly election. She said she had shifted from Karnataka to Tamil Nadu and had been residing in Tiruchy since 2024.

She further alleged that she became pregnant during their relationship and was coerced into terminating the pregnancy against her wishes. She also alleged physical abuse and threats to kill her and/or her children. Divya said she was prepared to submit electronic evidence and details of witnesses in support of her allegations.

The complaint was submitted to BJP national president Nitin Nabin, national general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh, state in-charge Arvind Menon, Nagenthran and other senior leaders. It sought examination of relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, police protection and disciplinary action, including Muruganandam's removal from the post and expulsion from the party if the allegations were established.

Muruganandam's response

When contacted by DT Next, Muruganandam said he was unaware of the complaint.

“I still don’t know what the complaint is. I’m unaware of that. Without knowing the complaint and charges made against me, I couldn’t respond to anything. After I get to know the details, I will issue a clarification,” he said.

Following the complaint, the BJP state leadership removed Muruganandam from all party positions with immediate effect. The allegations made in the complaint remain subject to inquiry.