Former BJP Tamil Nadu president K. Annamalai on Monday took a dig at actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief Kamal Haasan over his recent visit to the Karur stampede site, accusing him of favoring the ruling DMK.

“Kamal Haasan has sold his soul a long time back for one Rajya Sabha seat,” Annamalai said, referring to Haasan’s recent nomination to the Upper House. He added, “Whatever Kamal Haasan speaks, people of Tamil Nadu are not going to take him seriously. Going to Karur and saying the administration is not at fault, who will accept that?”

Responding, Kamal Haasan clarified that his visit was not meant to praise anyone. He thanked the authorities for preventing the event atop the bridge, saying, “Or else, it would have been an unforgettable black mark.” He also commended the Chief Minister for acting respectfully.

Kamal Haasan defended the police, urging the public to let them perform their duties. “Don’t complain about the police when we should thank them. They are doing their duty,” he said.