Makkal Needhi Maiyam (MNM) founder Kamal Haasan has stoked a possible controversy by saying “free India’s first terrorist was a Hindu,” referring to Nathuram Godse who killed Mahatma Gandhi in 1948. Addressing an election campaign at Aravakurichi in Tamil Nadu, the actor turned politician said he was one of those “proud Indians” who desired an India with equality and where the “three colours” in the Tricolour, an obvious reference to different faiths, “remained intact.”He said, “I am not saying this because this is a Muslim-dominated area, but I am saying this before a statue of Gandhi. Free India’s first terrorist was a Hindu, his name is Nathuram Godse.
There terrorism apparently starts.”Mr Haasan said he had come here “seeking answers for that murder.” He added, “Good Indians desire for equality and want the three colours in the Tricolour to remain intact. I am a good Indian, will proudly proclaim that.”In November 2017, Kamal Haasan stoked a row, when he took potshots at what he termed “Hindu extremism.” It drew condemnation from the BJP and Hindu outfits. Aravakurichi is one of the four Assembly constituencies in the State where bypolls are scheduled on May 19.
The MNM has fielded S. Mohanraj from this segment. His comments, especially in the wake of the ongoing fight between leading political parties on several issues ranging from terrorism to religious extremism, have snowballed into a major controversy. Several BJP leaders and their supporters have criticised Kamal Haasan for his remarks and stated that he’s an opportunist who’s instigating the people during the elections. Now, it remains to be seen if Kamal Haasan lands in more trouble because of his comments.
