Congress Skips MDMK Event Amid Controversy Over LTTE Leader's Photo, Stalin Calls for End to Communal Politics

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In a surprising move, the Congress party skipped an event of the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu on Friday. The reason behind this decision was the presence of a photo of Velupillai Prabhakaran, the former chief of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in the invitation. The LTTE is known for its involvement in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Tamil Nadu Congress chief K Selvaperunthagai had earlier announced that the party would not participate in the event due to this reason. However, he assured that the alliance between the Congress and the DMK remains intact. Congress leaders stated that seven local functionaries also chose not to attend the event for the same reason. In a separate event, Chief Minister MK Stalin flagged off MDMK chief Vaiko's 'march for equality' in Trichy district. Vaiko's 10-day yatra aims to promote communal harmony and raise awareness about the dangers of drug and alcohol use. Stalin emphasized that communal politics and the rising issue of drugs in society must be eradicated. Stalin expressed concern over hate speeches that have led to a rise in attacks on Christians, Muslims, and scheduled caste people. He emphasized the need for unity and called out those who use religion to spread hatred rather than bring people together. On the issue of drugs, Stalin listed the crackdowns undertaken by the state government and highlighted the shared responsibility of addressing this problem among the state and central governments as well as society at large.