PUDUKKOTTAI, 22 AUG

A video of DMK Minister TRB Raja’s son refusing to receive a medal from Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai at a state-level sports event has triggered a political row.

The incident occurred during the State Shooting Games in Pudukkottai, where Annamalai was the chief guest. When winner Suryaa Raaja Baalu, son of DMK Minister Raja, came on stage, Annamalai moved to place the medal around his neck. Suryaa instead picked it up himself from the table and wore it, leaving Annamalai momentarily surprised.

The video of the episode went viral on social media, drawing sharp political reactions. DMK supporters hailed it as a silent political statement, while BJP functionaries termed it disrespectful to the office of the chief guest and an attempt to politicise a sports event.

The incident is seen as a reflection of the intensifying rivalry between the ruling DMK and the BJP in Tamil Nadu, where Annamalai has been a strong critic of the state government.