TN BJP seeks action against Deputy CM Udhayanidhi for calling Sanskrit ‘dead language’
Chennai – The Tamil Nadu unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding that authorities act swiftly against Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin for calling Sanskrit a “dead language” in a recent Chennai event.
The complaint, brought in by BJP state spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad, says that Stalin’s remarks are not only disparaging but also inflammatory and run counter to constitutional values.
In a letter dated Monday, Prasad noted that Stalin repeatedly referred to Sanskrit as a “seththa mozhi” (dead language) at a book‑release ceremony. He went on to argue that the central government’s promotion of Sanskrit and Hindi is an imposition on Tamil. The BJP calls these statements factually mistaken and damaging to the country’s linguistic and cultural balance.
Prasad reminded the Home Ministry that Sanskrit is listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, is celebrated worldwide as a classical language, and is revered by millions of Hindus as the linguistic base of Vedic and temple traditions. He warned that “to publicly denigrate such a language is to attack the spirit of the Constitution and hurt the sentiments of millions,” as the letter states.
The party added that linking Sanskrit to an alleged threat against Tamil contributes to a “false and divisive narrative.” It highlighted that both languages have long existed as pillars of Indian civilisation.
Further, Prasad argued that comments from a high‑ranking official can jeopardise communal harmony and public order.
The BJP has requested that the Home Ministry launch an immediate investigation and consider legal action under provisions dealing with the promotion of enmity, hurt to religious feelings, and public mischief, specifically Sections 153A, 295A and 505 of the Indian Penal Code, or related clauses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita where applicable.
It also urged the Centre to explore constitutional safeguards under Article 256 to curb the misuse of public office for divisive speech. “We are confident that under your leadership, firm action will be taken to protect the dignity of the Constitution and uphold India’s cultural heritage,” Prasad said, concluding the petition. Copies of the representation have been forwarded to the Prime Minister and the Governor of Tamil Nadu for their information.
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