In Tamil Nadu, DMK chief M.K. Stalin's remarks are creating a political storm. His remarks against ruling TVK candidate Sathyabhama during the Dharapuram by-election campaign are drawing widespread criticism. The ruling party is fuming over the body-shaming of a Dalit woman candidate. They are demanding that Stalin immediately issue a public apology.

Stalin, who participated in the Dharapuram by-election campaign, accused the ruling TVK of horse trading. Sathyabhama, who won from Dharapuram on behalf of the AIADMK in the recent assembly elections, resigned from her post within a few weeks and joined TVK. Now, she is contesting from the same seat as the TVK candidate. Stalin made a speech alleging that money was involved behind her change of party.

"Now you are calling their candidate who worked against the truth 'suitcase-bhama'. She also has another name 'palti-bhama'. I don't understand how she managed to do that with her body shape," Stalin commented.

TVK reacted strongly to Stalin's comments on Satyabhama's body shape. Party leader and Health Minister Arun Raj said it was an insult to women and the Dalit community. He demanded an unconditional apology from Stalin. On the other hand, DMK leaders refused to respond to the controversy. It is known that after six MLAs from AIADMK resigned from their posts and joined TVK after the assembly elections, allegations of bargaining have been leveled against the ruling party.