'How Were You CM…': Stalin Takes On EPS Over Temple Funds Allegations, Says MGR Did It Too

Last Updated:July 10, 2025, 16:36 IST

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin defended the practice and said he is simply following in the footsteps of AIADMK founder MG Ramachandran, popularly known as MGR

AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami (R) has accused the MK Stalin-led Tamil Nadu government of misusing temple funds. (Image: PTI/File)

A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami alleged that the MK Stalin-led DMK is misusing temple funds by diverting them towards educational institutions.

Launching a sharp attack in response Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday defended the practice and said he is simply following in the footsteps of AIADMK founder and former CM MG Ramachandran, popularly known as MGR.

Stalin took a swipe at Palaniswami by saying he had once acted as a “dubbing voice" for the BJP, but had now become its “original voice".   

“Until now, he was giving a dubbing voice to the BJP, but now he has turned into the original voice. The HR&CE (Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments) law permits construction of colleges. How were you a chief minister without knowing this, I do not understand," said Stalin at an event in Thiruvar, as quoted in a report published by India Today.

He countered Palaniswami’s remarks that colleges should not be built using HR&CE funds, and said this is permissible under the law. He reminded him of the precedent set by MGR. 

“When MGR was Chief Minister, he inaugurated the Palani Aandavar College. And even you, in your last term, inaugurated the expansion of that college. Were you in a different state during the inauguration?" he was quoted.

News politics 'How Were You CM…': Stalin Takes On EPS Over Temple Funds Allegations, Says MGR Did It Too