'Promoting enmity, provoking riot' among 9 charges against Udhayanidhi

Former Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister and opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has been arrested on nine charges including promoting enmity, provoking riot, and harassment of women. The case was filed by the women's wing of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) after they alleged that Udhayanidhi made derogatory comments about actor Trisha during a public meeting in Thanjavur.

Police took him into custody on Tuesday morning, stating that his remarks insulted Trisha's modesty and demeaned women. Udhayanidhi has denied the allegations, dismissing the arrest as a "comedy" and asserting that he will face the legal consequences. The controversy arose during a speech on the Cauvery water dispute in Thanjavur, where sections of the crowd repeatedly chanted "Trisha, Trisha."

Udhayanidhi's arrest has sparked protests by DMK workers, with reports of road blockades in several districts. DMK president MK Stalin has convened an emergency meeting of party leaders and approached the Madras High Court for anticipatory bail. In response, TVK has also filed a complaint with the National Commission for Women, demanding an unconditional public apology from Udhayanidhi.