Fri Jan 24 19:16:05 UTC 2025: ## NTK Leader Seeman’s Sharp Criticism of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy Sparks Controversy

**Chennai, January 25, 2025** – Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) leader Seeman’s recent sharp attacks on Dravidian icon Periyar E.V. Ramasamy have ignited a firestorm of controversy in Tamil Nadu. Seeman, who previously avoided direct criticism of Periyar, has now labeled him an “enemy of Tamils,” a stark shift from his earlier stance of considering Periyar neither a leader nor an enemy of the Tamil people.

This escalation in rhetoric comes in the heat of the Erode East Assembly by-poll campaign. The NTK spokesperson, Packiarasan Se, attributes the change to a backlash following a speech by Seeman on December 20, 2024, celebrating the birth anniversary of national poet Bharathiyar. In the speech, Seeman contrasted Bharathiyar’s anti-caste stance within a Brahmin identity with what he characterized as Periyar’s “insult” to the Tamil language and an unfair portrayal as a savior of Tamils. This sparked a counter-meeting against Seeman on January 5th, further solidifying his change in perspective.

The shift also appears connected to criticism from DMK supporters regarding Seeman’s views on Velupillai Prabhakaran, the late LTTE leader. Karthigaichelvan, NTK State Secretary, framed the move as a strategic challenge to Periyar’s continuing influence in Tamil Nadu, suggesting the DMK leverages Periyarist ideology for political gain. He stated the party aimed to dismantle this perceived advantage.

Seeman’s dramatic change in stance has surprised many, including those within the NTK itself, particularly given his previous self-identification as a Periyarist. The controversy highlights the complexities of Dravidian politics in Tamil Nadu and the evolving positions of key political figures in the run-up to the crucial by-election.

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