Tamil Nadu Leaders Celebrate Social Justice Day for Periyar

Political leaders and dignitaries across Tamil Nadu commemorated the birth anniversary of social reformer Periyar E.V. Ramasamy on September 17, 2026. The state observes the date as Social Justice Day to honor the founder of the Self-Respect Movement and the Dravidian Movement for his advocacy of rationalism, gender equality, and the dismantling of Brahminical hegemony.

In Chennai, Assembly Speaker JCD Prabakar, Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin, and various state ministers offered floral tributes at a statue on Mount Road. Chief Minister Vijay (Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu) and DMK president M.K. Stalin emphasized the necessity for future generations to challenge social domination and fight caste and religious discrimination. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami also paid tribute, noting the reformer's lasting impact on the region's political and social life.

DMK President M.K. Stalin directed party members to observe the day by taking a pledge for social justice and hoisting renewed party flags to mark the start of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam's 78th year. MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi urged the public to propagate Periyar's teachings of rationality and equality globally, while Udhayanidhi Stalin pledged to accelerate the implementation of these progressive ideals for the youth. Sources differed on the specific anniversary, with some identifying it as the 147th and others as the 148th.