BJP protests minister Nirmalkumar’s remark on governor’s appointment; demands an apology

Nainar Nagenthran. File | Photo credit: G. Moorthy

BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran on Tuesday (June 23, 2026) objected to minister R Nirmalkumar’s statement that even relatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Union Home Minister Amit Shah could be appointed as governors, saying he had no basic knowledge of the Constitution.

Referring to the minister’s remarks regarding the post of governor during an interaction with reporters, Mr. Nagenthran said in a social media post that Mr. Nirmalkumar’s “irresponsible” statement was aimed at disparaging two leaders who have served the people of the country for over a decade.

Alleging that the law and order situation in the state was deteriorating and that sexual crimes were on the rise, he claimed that there was no difference between the TVK-led government and the former DMK government and that both were involved in the “politics of hate”.

The BJP leader demanded an apology from the minister for making such remarks against the Prime Minister, who had appointed eminent personalities with rich experience in politics, education and public service as governors.

Mr. Nagenthran further stated, “Why and how many times did you go to Lok Bhavan when you failed to prove majority to form the government? Who all did you contact on phone to form the government? Shall I publish the list? So please don’t introduce such political tricks from now on, Mr. Minister!”

Mr. Nirmalkumar said during a press conference recently that relatives of Mr. Modi and Mr. Shah could also be appointed as Governor.

Published – 23 Jun 2026 16:29 IST