MDMK chief Vaiko, DMK Rajya Sabha M.P. Tiruchi Siva, Dravidar Kazhagam president K. Veeramani, Congress leader Peter Alphonse and other IUML leaders released a book titled ‘Ulaga Arangil Siraj Ul Minnath’ on the Indian Union Muslim League leader, Abdul Samad on his birth anniversary at Periyar Thidal on Sunday.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Veeramani said that Dravidar Kazhagam and IUML have a historical connection. “I urge you all to create a federation in Tamil Nadu even if you are unable to let go of party identity. We need to be clear about who our enemies are, and who our friends are. Be united. Start a federation from Tamil Nadu and say that you will be in ‘one alliance’,” he said.
Mr. Siva said that there is no contradiction in opposing the Rashtriyaswayam Sevak Sangh (RSS) and supporting the IUML, “The difference is that the RSS supporters want only them to be a part of India but IUML state they want Muslims to be a part of India. The country finds itself at a difficult time in its history. Plurality, federalism, secularism form the basis of India. The fact that the party was called Indian Union Muslim League shows their foresight.”
MDMK general secretary Vaiko recalled how he had categorically supported the Islamic Shariat law when he was the Rajya Sabha M.P. by enlisting the support of former DMK president, M. Karunanidhi.
“When the present CM of Uttar Pradesh tried to bring a Private Member Bill on Common Civil Code in the Parliament, some of us were asked to leave but I chose to stay and oppose it on the floor,” he said. “Abdul Samad has won the hearts of people through his achievements and through his speeches. The supporters of Dravidian movement will celebrate more birth anniversaries in future as well.”
Published – October 27, 2025 06:21 am IST
