NTK chief Seeman questions Periyar's contribution to the revolution, continues to make controversial remarks
Seeman said that if Periyar was the one who established social justice, why is the PMK fighting for 10.5 percent reservation and also questioned Periyar's contribution to the revolution.
NTK party leader Seeman
CHENNAI: Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator Seeman on Sunday said that his party will reveal the candidate’s name for Erode East bypoll on January 14.
Speaking to reporters after celebrating Pongal with party workers at the NTK headquarters in Porur here, Seeman said the party won’t shy away from fighting the polls, unlike others, as it is a movement born out of struggles. “We (NTK) need to stand on the field and fight. We cannot afford to be absentee players in the democratic process. We will announce our candidate for Erode East bypoll on the Pongal day (January 14),” Seeman said.
In contrast, he endorsed AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami’s decision to boycott the bypoll, stating that the electoral process in the State has been compromised, regardless of the ruling party.
“By-elections are not being held democratically. This is not a recent phenomenon. It has been the case for a while now,” he said.
Meanwhile, Seeman stood by his comments against Periyar E V Ramasamy, urging people to refrain from drawing parallels between Periyar and B R Ambedkar.
“Periyar’s philosophy and legacy are unique and should not be compared with others. We are willing to engage in public debates and discussions on Periyar’s ideology, but others seem hesitant to do so,” he said.
Seeman slammed the ruling DMK party as “Karunanidhi’s Property.” He accused the ruling DMK of hiding behind Periyar’s legacy while ignoring the contributions of other Tamil leaders.
“The DMK is trying to conceal the sacrifices and struggles of thousands of Tamils who fought for the State’s rights, language, and social justice. They are attempting to reduce the entire Tamil movement to a single figure, Periyar,” Seeman alleged.
The NTK chief also took a swipe at the Union Government for scheduling the UGC NET exam during the Pongal holidays.
“This is a blatant display of disregard for Tamil culture and traditions. Would the Union Government dare to schedule a crucial exam during a prominent North Indian festival?” Seeman questioned.
