Kalaignar's speech has never been expunged in TN assembly. But now there is no freedom of expression in the assembly. http://t.co/92mBQaDDoC

Expressing deep concern over shrinking democratic space within Tamil Nadu's premier legislative forum, DMK Treasurer M. K. Stalin on July 31, 2014, drew attention to the unprecedented muzzling of elected representatives inside the state assembly. Stalin highlighted that across more than five decades of distinguished parliamentary service, the profound speeches of DMK President Dr. Kalaignar Karunanidhi were never expunged from the assembly record, as past presiding officers respected principled opposition debate. In sharp contrast, the current dispensation had created an oppressive legislative environment where microphones were routinely cut off and legitimate questions concerning water scarcity, power cuts, and price rise were summarily expunged. Stalin remarked that the legislature was established to amplify citizens' grievances and hold the executive accountable, not to serve as an echo chamber for uncritical praise of the Chief Minister. He cautioned that extinguishing free speech within parliamentary chambers degrades institutional legitimacy and alienates ordinary voters who expect constructive deliberations. Stalin affirmed that DMK lawmakers would never be intimidated by procedural gag orders, pledging to champion constitutional rights, preserve assembly records, and voice the public's real problems across the state.