Arrest of Anti-Caste Rapper 'Therukkural' Arivu Condemned: Art and Dissent Must Not Be Criminalized

Reacting with outrage to the arrest of popular anti-caste hip-hop artist and lyricist 'Therukkural' Arivu for performing songs critical of NEET and educational exclusion, Udhayanidhi Stalin characterized the arrest as a shameful assault on artistic freedom and freedom of expression. Udhayanidhi emphasized that Arivu’s music reflects the authentic pain and aspirations of millions of marginalized students across India. He demanded the immediate withdrawal of all charges and the artist's unconditional release.

I strongly condemn the TN Government led by @actorvijay for arresting rap singer and my dear brother ‘Therukkural’ Arivu for speaking out against NEET. His voice reflects the sentiments and demands of not just Tamil Nadu, but millions of people across India. At a time when the CJP-led rallies and protests against #NEET are gaining momentum across the country, the TVK government has chosen to arrest Arivu. This sends a troubling message to the youth of Tamil Nadu who are considering taking to the streets in solidarity with the protesting youth in Delhi to oppose NEET. NEET is not just riddled with discrepancies; it has become a scam. The voices raised against NEET deserve to be heard, not silenced. #BanNEET Media