Kallakurichi: Social Justice Minister Vanni Arasu on Friday condemned the alleged spread of slander against Kallakurichi district collector, stating that such acts are aimed at intimidating women and preventing them from functioning effectively in public service.
Speaking to reporters in Ulundurpet following a palm seed plantation drive at Keeranur lake, the minister affirmed that his party, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), always stands on the side of justice and affected women.
Addressing questions regarding the recent controversy involving allegedly obscene text messages sent by a TVK MLA to the district collector, Vanni Arasu noted that he had only come across the news a couple of days prior while attending a Forest Rights Act (FRA) event in Masinagudi, the Nilgiris, and has yet to formally inquire into the matter.
He emphasised that protecting women in public life and government roles is a collective responsibility. Praising Collector Padmaja as an upright officer who adheres strictly to the law without yielding to pressure from either the ruling party or the opposition—including recommendations from his own party cadres—he remarked that questioning her integrity is an attempt to disrupt her administrative duties. He added that he would comment further if requested to submit a report by the Chief Minister or concerned authorities.
Earlier in the day, Vanni Arasu, accompanied by the Collector, Superintendent of Police Shahnaz, government officials, and members of the public, inaugurated the plantation of palm seeds and saplings around Keeranur lake in Ulundurpet Municipality.
Highlighting the cultural significance of palm trees to Tamil Nadu, he recalled VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan’s statewide initiative of planting lakhs of palm seeds on his birthday. As part of advance Children’s Day celebrations ahead of November 14, the minister also distributed greeting cards and cakes to government school students and served sweet pongal to children at an Anganwadi center in Ulundurpet, following the Chief Minister’s guidance.
Responding to queries, Vanni Arasu stated that the government’s response regarding the Governor’s visits would depend on the statements and reports the Governor issues on Tamil Nadu’s law and order situation.
He also dismissed allegations that Children’s Day events were being used to divert attention from crimes against women and child abductions, calling such claims ill-intentioned. Citing the United Nations’ definition of Children’s Day, he explained that the occasion is dedicated to ensuring children grow up healthy, happy, and free from fear—a principle his party has consistently upheld.
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