Madras High Court Rules Udhayanidhi Stalin's Sanatana Dharma Remarks As Hate Speech

23-Jan-2026

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The court's Madurai Bench has observed that comparing the faith to diseases like dengue and malaria constitutes 'hate speech' and a 'clear attack on Hinduism.' 

The bench further noted that phrases like 'Sanatana Ozhippu' imply 'genocide and culturicide,' signaling the eradication of a culture. 

The ruling came as the court quashed an FIR against BJP leader Amit Malviya, stating his response to the inflammatory statement did not constitute hate speech. While the DMK maintains there was 'no hate intent' and that the Deputy Chief Minister was questioning the definition of Sanatana, the BJP claims the verdict exposes 'anti-Hindu sentiments' used for vote bank politics.