Annamalai Slams Vijay Over Silence on Thiruparankundram Issue, Alleges Minority Appeasement

Former BJP Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai has launched a sharp attack on actor-turned-politician Vijay over his silence on the ongoing Thiruparankundram controversy, accusing him of political ambiguity and minority appeasement.

Questioning Vijay’s approach to selective commentary, Annamalai said political leadership demands clarity and courage rather than calculated silence. “If something is wrong, say it is wrong. If it is right, say it is right. Standing in the middle does not work in politics,” he asserted.

Annamalai argued that Vijay’s silence on sensitive public issues could weaken people’s trust in his ability to govern. “There are multiple issues affecting the people. If you remain quiet on matters like these, how can the public trust you with leadership?” he asked.

Referring specifically to the Thiruparankundram issue, Annamalai said public sentiment was clearly in favour of allowing devotees to light the traditional Karthigai Deepam lamp. He questioned Vijay’s reluctance to express an opinion when emotions were running high. “The people want to light the lamp. What kind of politics is it to stay silent on such a matter?” he said.

The BJP leader also drew a comparison with Vijay’s earlier political statements. He pointed out that Vijay had spoken out in Puducherry in support of a minority MLA allegedly denied a ministerial portfolio but chose not to comment when, according to Annamalai, majority sentiments were involved in Tamil Nadu.

While stating that Vijay was free to enter politics and explain his ideology to voters, Annamalai said selective intervention and silence could raise serious doubts about consistency and intent.

The Thiruparankundram row centres on a dispute over lighting the Karthigai Deepam lamp at Deepathoon, a stone pillar located on Thiruparankundram hill near Madurai. Although the Madras High Court directed that devotees be allowed to perform the ritual, the Tamil Nadu government cited law and order concerns and did not implement the order. This led to protests, police action, clashes on the ground, and impeachment notices being moved against the judge.