Vijayawada: The Jana Jagarana Samiti, a non-profit organization, has stirred controversy by offering a substantial cash reward of Rs 10 lakh to anyone who slaps Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader and Tamil Nadu minister Udayanidhi Stalin.
The controversial incentive comes in response to Udayanidhi Stalin's recent remarks that have ignited a nationwide debate on the compatibility of Sanatana Dharma with social justice.
Udhayanidhi Stalin, the son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, asserted that Sanatana Dharma, believed to be one of the oldest religious traditions in India, is incompatible with the concept of social justice and should be "eliminated."
Drawing controversial parallels between Sanatana Dharma and diseases such as dengue and malaria, his comments immediately drew sharp criticism from various quarters, particularly the BJP.
"Sanatana is like malaria and dengue, and so it must be eradicated rather than opposed," Udhayanidhi remarked, setting off a firestorm of controversy.
The BJP responded, accusing Udhayanidhi Stalin of making a "genocidal call" with his remarks. Isckon-Kolkata Vice-President Radharaman Das, in strong condemnation of Udhayanidhi's statements, declared, "We are going to write to the Prime Minister on the issue so that legal action is taken. He is, after all, the CM's son and a minister."
Amidst the growing outrage, the Jana Jagarana Samiti announced cash reward for anyone who physically confronts Udhayanidhi Stalin over his remarks. The non-profit organization has reportedly put up posters in various parts of Andhra Pradesh's Vijayawada, publicizing the offer.