The office bearers of the right-wing organization Hindu Munnani have lodged three writ petitions before the Madras High Court, expressing their objection to the remarks made by Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin regarding Sanatana Dharma.
They have requested the issuance of a writ of quo warranto, seeking an explanation from Stalin, Minister PK Sekarbabu, and Member of Parliament A Raja, regarding the authority under which they continue to hold public offices, "despite their participation in a conference advocating for the annihilation of Sanatana Dharma."
On Friday, Justice Anita Sumanth instructed the petitioners to provide supporting documents to substantiate their claim that the ministers and the MP have violated the provisions of Article 51A (c) (e) of the Constitution. This article imposes a duty on every individual to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India, as well as to promote harmony and a sense of brotherhood among all citizens.
On September 2 of this year, during a conference organized by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers Artists Association in Chennai, Udhayanidhi Stalin stated that certain matters should not only be opposed but eradicated.
"Similar to the eradication of dengue, mosquitoes, malaria, or coronavirus, it is imperative that we eradicate Sanatana," he had stated, resulting in widespread public outrage.
Senior Counsel P Wilson, representing Stalin, informed the Court on Friday that the petitioners have failed to provide any evidence to support their allegations.
He further argued that the prayer for quo warranto is only maintainable if the petitioner can prove a violation in the appointment to a public office or any disqualification under the Constitution or laws. In this particular case, no such disqualification is applicable. Holding a political viewpoint cannot be considered a disqualification, he contended.
Consequently, the Court requested the petitioners to submit the necessary documents.
The High Court will continue to hear the case on October 11.
A plea is already pending before the Supreme Court, seeking the registration of a first information report (FIR) against him for his remarks.
Additionally, a court in Jammu and Kashmir recently ordered an inquiry into a complaint filed by a lawyer, requesting the registration of an FIR against Stalin.
TAGS: Madras High Court Justice Anita Sumanth Udhayanidhi Stalin Sanatan Dharma
