Nirmala Sitharaman says Tamil leader denied PM chance due to "betrayal of forces"

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday claimed that a Tamil politician was stopped from becoming Prime Minister, calling it the “biggest betrayal” to Tamil Nadu.

Speaking at a memorial event for Tamil Maanila Congress founder GK Moopanar, Sitharaman said forces that often talk about Tamil pride were responsible for preventing him from becoming Prime Minister.

Without naming the DMK, she said, “We all know who the forces who stopped him from becoming Prime Minister. Those who keep repeatedly talking about Tamilnadu, Tamil culture and Tamil pride stopped Thamizhan from becoming Prime Minister by not supporting him. I believe stopping Moopanar was the biggest betrayal to Tamilnadu.”

She hailed Moopanar as a leader admired across India, describing him as “simple, honest and a true nationalist.” “He was a respected leader nationwide, known not just in Tamil Nadu but in Bihar, Haryana and every corner of the country,” she added.

Sitharaman, along with AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, DMDK Treasurer Sudheesh, BJP leaders Nainar Nagenthiran, K Annamalai and others, paid floral tributes at Moopanar’s memorial in Teynampet.

The Union Minister also called on the State NDA alliance leaders to remain united. “I urge you all to lead this alliance in a good way. Let us work for the people through the alliance. Let us not worry about small issues within. We have matured and experienced leaders here. They work with conviction and discipline for the people. Let us be united,” she said.

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