DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has appeared before the Madras High Court to address the plea against his holding of public office due to alleged anti-Sanatana Dharma remarks. Senior counsel P Wilson, representing Udhayanidhi, argued that the plea was filed based on ideological differences, with the petitioner being a Hindu right-wing outfit. Wilson also pointed out that Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to practice and propagate religion, also gives the right to people to practice and propagate atheism. He further pointed out that Article 25, read with Article 19(1)(A) on freedom of expression, protects the Minister’s speech. The Judge, Anita Sumanth, has scheduled the next hearing for October 31, and has asked the petitioners to produce the invitation of the event where Udhayanidhi is alleged to have made the remarks, as well as the list of attendees.