Vijay’s Gesture in Assembly Sparks New Controversy

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief Vijay’s gesture in the Assembly has triggered a political controversy. While speaking about the 1975-77 Emergency and arrests under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), Vijay pointed towards his jaw with his hand. The opposition alleged that the gesture was aimed at DMK chief MK Stalin, although Vijay did not mention Stalin by name anywhere in his speech.

DMK leaders have long maintained that Stalin was arrested under MISA during the Emergency and was allegedly assaulted in police custody, resulting in an injury to his jaw. The opposition claimed that Vijay’s gesture was a reference to this episode. The DMK and CPI(M), which extends outside support to Vijay’s government, criticised the gesture, while DMK MP Kanimozhi also lashed out at Vijay. However, TVK spokesperson Satyakumar rejected the allegation that the gesture amounted to body-shaming, saying it was merely a gesture and was not intended to insult anyone.