Politics – Nainar Nagendran Apologises After Remark Sparks Row
Politics – A fresh political controversy in Tamil Nadu has prompted an apology from state BJP president Nainar Nagendran after his remarks involving actor Trisha Krishnan during a critique of actor-turned-politician Vijay triggered widespread criticism.
Apology Follows Strong Backlash
On Monday, Nainar Nagendran, 65, said his earlier comment was made inadvertently and expressed regret if it had caused distress. His statement came shortly after Trisha Krishnan issued a firm response condemning the remark.
“This was said by mistake,” Nagendran said in a brief clarification. He added that senior party leaders, including national women’s wing chief Vanathi Srinivasan and former Tamil Nadu BJP president K. Annamalai, had spoken to him about the matter. “If my words have hurt anyone, I sincerely regret it,” he said.
The apology marked a shift from his earlier stance, when he had declined to withdraw the comment despite mounting criticism.
Controversial Comment at Political Event
The issue began after Nagendran addressed a gathering where he responded to recent statements by Vijay about his party’s prospects in the upcoming Assembly elections. During his speech, Nagendran questioned Vijay’s political experience and used a personal reference that drew immediate attention.
He had suggested that Vijay needed to “come out of Trisha’s house” before aspiring to political success. The remark was accompanied by further comments mocking the actor’s political ambitions, comparing them to someone dreaming beyond their capacity.
The statement quickly spread across social media platforms and news outlets, prompting criticism from various quarters.
Trisha Krishnan Asserts Political Neutrality
In response, Trisha Krishnan, through her legal advisor, issued a sharply worded statement distancing herself from the controversy. She made it clear that she had no role in the political discourse and objected to her name being mentioned in that context.
“My client did not anticipate such an inappropriate and distasteful remark from a person occupying a senior position in the state’s political sphere,” the statement read. It further emphasised that she wished to be recognised solely for her professional work and not be drawn into political debates.
Trisha underscored her political neutrality and called for her personal life to remain outside partisan discussions.
Political Leaders React
The remark drew reactions from leaders across party lines. Members of the ruling DMK described the comment as unnecessary and inappropriate, arguing that it reflected poorly on political discourse. Representatives from the Congress party also questioned why a film actor not actively engaged in politics was brought into the exchange.
Critics said the episode highlighted the need for greater restraint in public speeches, particularly when addressing political rivals. Some leaders framed the controversy as an example of personal attacks overshadowing substantive debate ahead of elections.
Shift in Position
Initially, Nagendran had defended his words and indicated he would not retract them. However, following continued criticism and internal discussions within the party, he chose to express regret.
While he did not elaborate further on the context of the comment, his apology appeared aimed at closing the issue and limiting further political fallout.
The controversy unfolds at a time when political activity in Tamil Nadu is intensifying ahead of the Assembly polls. Vijay, who recently announced his formal entry into politics, has been positioning his party as a significant challenger in the state’s political landscape.
As parties prepare for a competitive electoral season, the episode serves as a reminder of the heightened scrutiny surrounding public statements by political leaders.