DMK leader Udhayanidhi’s ’double entendre’ on Trisha sparks controversy

Mangalore Today News Network

Chennai, Aug. 4, 2026: Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Udhayanidhi Stalin has come under fire over remarks he made during a protest on the Cauvery water-sharing issue in Thanjavur on Monday, with the comments triggering sharp political criticism.

Addressing the gathering, Udhayanidhi criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, alleging that the State had not received "even a single drop" of Cauvery water while the Chief Minister remained unconcerned.

During his speech, sections of the crowd began chanting the name of actor Trisha. Udhayanidhi briefly paused before responding with a remark that was widely described by political opponents as carrying a double meaning, sparking outrage and criticism across party lines.

BJP condemns remarks

Tamil Nadu BJP chief spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy strongly criticised Udhayanidhi’s comments, calling them "disgusting, obscene, vulgar and shameful."

In a post on X, Thirupathy accused the DMK leader of lowering the standards of public discourse and demanded legal action against him, while also criticising former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for remaining silent over the incident.

TVK MLA joins criticism

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) MLA Rhevanth Charan also condemned Udhayanidhi’s remarks, terming them "absolutely disgusting" and unacceptable.

In a post on X, Charan alleged that the comments reflected the political culture of the DMK and accused the Opposition leader of resorting to provocative statements for political attention after the party’s protest failed to gain traction.

The remarks have since sparked a political controversy, with opposition parties demanding an apology and accusing Udhayanidhi of using inappropriate language during a public event.