Why the Iyengar Brahmins of Tamil Nadu Do Not Support DMK, CPIM, and INC

The political landscapes of Tamil Nadu are often characterized by intricate and evolving alliances. One of the most intriguing aspects of this political tapestry is the question of why the Iyengar Brahmins, known for their progressive social views and significant respect within the state, do not support the DMK, CPIM, and article delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon, examining the political, cultural, and social factors that shape the choices of this community.

Defining the Secular Progressive Ideal

The term lsquo;liberal secular progressiversquo; is often misunderstood and misapplied, particularly within the context of Tamil Nadu. Many who claim to be secular and liberal favor privileges and special treatment, which is not in line with the true definition of these terms. This misinterpretation has led to political parties and groups accusing others of not being truly secular or liberal, emphasizing their own importance and privileges.

The Rise of DMK and Community-specific Policies

The DMK and its allies have historically championed the cause of a casteless society, envisioning community-living spaces called ldquo;samthuva purams.rdquo; However, their actions have gone beyond this idealistic goal. The party has eradicated caste symbols on nameboards and targeted specific communities to garner votes from others. Notably, some of these actions include insulting Brahmins by making pigs wear holy threads, a practice that goes against traditional Hindu customs. This behavior has led to a significant shift in public perception.

Sukhirat Kishore and the DMK's Desperate Appeals

With the DMK facing electoral defeat, there has been a shift in their strategies. They now appeal to the Hindi-speaking Aryan Brahmin, Prashant Kishore, to garner support. The desperation is evident as they seek to regain political dominance. For the Iyengar Brahmins, who have a deep-rooted respect for their traditions and Tamil identity, such appeals are seen with contempt. They question the authenticity and sincerity of these political moves and ask for genuine support from the DMK.

Brahmins and their Religious Identity

Both Iyengar and Iyer Brahmins take their religion seriously. They have a long history of grievances against the DMK and its allies, who have consistently attacked Brahmins and Hinduism. For instance, the DMK and its supporters often speak ill of Hindu gods and engage in practices that violate the sacred traditions of Brahmins. Unlike other dominant castes, Brahmins, being numerically less but culturally significant, play a crucial role in vote bank politics. They are known to reciprocate by supporting political parties that respect them and their traditions.

The BJP and ADMK: Alternatives for Brahmins

Brahmins in Tamil Nadu often support the BJP on the national level as a Hindu-based party. At the state level, however, the BJP is not a significant political force. Archival records show that the ADMK, which was founded by MGR, has a history of not showing hatred towards Brahmins. Instead, ADMK focuses on accommodating all communities and pleasing them through legislation. This strategy has been successful in garnering the support of Brahmins.

Why Voting for DMK is a Non-starter

The DMK has a reputation for being corrupt and engaging in criminal activities. Voting for such a party is not only detrimental to the interests of Brahmins but also to the overall development of Tamil Nadu. The DMK's primary goal is to create divisive emotions around language and identity, which can ultimately lead to the looting of the state by irresponsible and corrupt entities.

Conclusion

Understanding the political alliances of Iyengar Brahmins in Tamil Nadu involves recognizing the complex interplay of tradition, religion, and politics. While there are valid reasons for their alignment with certain political parties, the journey towards progress and stability requires a more nuanced approach that respects and upholds the cultural and religious values of all communities.