BJP Accuses DMK of Christmas Event Boycott

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday accused the Dravida Munnetra
Kazhagam (DMK) of boycotting a Christmas celebration held in Kanyakumari
because leaders of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam were invited to the event.

Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore, BJP Tamil Nadu president K. Annamalai
said the DMK’s decision to stay away raised questions. He pointed out that
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin had attended the same annual Christmas celebration
in Kanyakumari in previous years, showing the importance the DMK had earlier
given to the event.

However, this year, the DMK leadership did not participate. According to
Mr. Annamalai, the party chose to boycott the function because the organisers
had invited representatives of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. He claimed this
showed political intolerance and a lack of respect for the spirit of unity
associated with Christmas celebrations.

Mr. Annamalai said festivals should bring people together, regardless of
political differences. He added that avoiding such events for political
reasons sends the wrong message to the public, especially to the Christian
community in the region.

The DMK has not yet responded to the BJP’s allegations. The issue has sparked
political debate in Tamil Nadu, with parties trading charges over inclusiveness
and political rivalry.