A video that has surfaced on social media has stirred political unrest in Tamil Nadu, allegedly showing liquor bottles served at a poll-related youth wing event bearing the images of Chief Minister MK Stalin and his son Udhayanidhi Stalin. The event, held in Kallakurichi district, comes at a sensitive time as the state gears up for the 2026 Assembly elections.
In the video, men dressed in white shirts and black trousers can be seen eating at a dining table, with visible liquor bottles placed prominently. Although the large banner at the venue does not explicitly name the DMK, it does reference Kallakurichi South District, Rishivandiyam Assembly Constituency, and various polling booth youth wings, featuring photos of MK Stalin, Udhayanidhi Stalin, and local MLA Vasantham Karthikeyan.
The authenticity of the video has not been independently verified, but the imagery has sparked sharp criticism from the opposition. The BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit was quick to condemn the footage, with Vice President Narayanan Thirupathy calling it “shocking” and accusing the DMK of displaying the “arrogance of power.” He further alleged that the DMK was “leading youngsters down the path of destruction.”
Event Legality and Location Under Scrutiny
While the consumption of alcohol may be legal on private property in Tamil Nadu, it is prohibited in public venues like wedding halls or community auditoriums without valid permits. However, the exact location of the gathering seen in the video remains ambiguous, complicating any definitive legal judgment.
Responding to the uproar, DMK sources distanced the party from the event, stating it was “not organized by the party.” Despite mounting questions, the Kallakurichi Police stated they are “not verifying the video,” offering no clarification about a potential investigation.
Repeated attempts by media to contact MLA Vasantham Karthikeyan for comment have gone unanswered. The lack of accountability and transparency has only further fuelled criticism, with many questioning the law-and-order climate under the current administration.
Political Implications Before 2026 State Polls
This controversy comes amid increased political tensions in Tamil Nadu, with opposition parties repeatedly targeting the DMK over issues such as liquor abuse, drug menace, and law enforcement lapses. With elections less than a year away, such incidents risk denting the DMK’s image, particularly among first-time voters and the youth demographic.
As the video continues to make rounds online, its impact is likely to resonate beyond Kallakurichi, becoming a talking point in the broader debate about ethics in political campaigning and the responsibilities of ruling parties.
Whether this was a rogue event or part of a larger cultural pattern, the episode is sure to spark calls for clearer norms and enforcement on political conduct — especially during the sensitive pre-election period.
