The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) staged a large demonstration at Fort Maidan in Salem, protesting remarks made by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay about DMK president M.K. Stalin. Senior party leaders led chants and warned the CM of consequences in upcoming by‑polls.

  • DMK organized a protest in Salem against CM C. Joseph Vijay
  • The rally is part of a statewide movement ahead of by‑elections
  • Historical references to the MISA era were invoked by party leaders

On Saturday, September 12, 2026, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) gathered at Fort Maidan in Salem to voice dissent against Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay's recent comments on party president M.K. Stalin. The demonstration formed a key segment of a larger, state‑wide protest organized by the opposition.

Former minister R. Rajendran and district secretaries T.M. Selvaganapathi and S.R. Sivalingam led the crowd, chanting slogans that accused the CM of turning the Assembly into a "drama stage." Their rhetoric emphasized that Vijay’s remarks were disrespectful and politically reckless.

Read Also:New Book on Mahaperiyava Launched in Mylapore

Speaking at the rally, Rajya Sabha member and DMK deputy general secretary Tiruchi N. Siva alleged that voters now regret having elected Vijay. He claimed the CM recited scripted dialogues and was ignorant of the hardships DMK leaders endured during the MISA period. "While past chief ministers spoke with dignity, Mr. Vijay merely mimics scripted lines," Siva asserted, adding that the party would teach Vijay a lesson in the upcoming by‑polls.

Historical Background

Founded in 1949, the DMK emerged from the Dravidian movement, championing social justice, linguistic pride, and anti‑caste policies. During the Emergency of 1975‑77, the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) saw numerous DMK activists detained without trial, a trauma that still resonates within the party’s collective memory.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this protest could reshape voter sentiment ahead of the upcoming by‑elections, especially in constituencies where DMK traditionally enjoys strong grassroots support. The rhetoric between CM Vijay and DMK leader M.K. Stalin may also influence coalition dynamics at the state level.

"If the chief minister’s remarks go unaddressed, it could fuel deeper resentment within DMK’s cadre and swing crucial swing seats," noted a senior political analyst.
Did You Know?: Under MISA in 1975, many DMK leaders were imprisoned for up to 12 years without formal charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What triggered the Salem demonstration?

A: The protest was a direct response to CM C. Joseph Vijay’s comments about DMK president M.K. Stalin, which the party deemed disrespectful.

Q2: Could this protest affect the upcoming by‑poll results?

A: Analysts believe that high‑visibility rallies can shift public opinion, especially in DMK‑stronghold areas, potentially influencing the by‑poll outcomes.