Udhayanidhi Stalin, the leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu assembly, stirred controversy by stating that Sanatan Dharma, which he claims divides people, should be eradicated. His remarks during his maiden speech were met with immediate backlash from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with state president Nainar Nagenthran accusing him of political immaturity and disrespecting Hindu beliefs. BJP leader Amit Malviya also criticized Udhayanidhi, labeling his comments as arrogant. In addition to his controversial statement, Udhayanidhi urged the government to prioritize 'Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu', a Tamil cultural song, during official events, citing its relegation during the chief minister's swearing-in ceremony as a cause for public anger. He noted the nearly equal representation of opposition and ruling party members in the assembly as a significant message from the electorate, asserting that the DMK would act as a constructive opposition rather than an adversary. Udhayanidhi concluded by expressing a willingness to share knowledge and experience with the ruling party for the betterment of Tamil Nadu.