Former Tamil Nadu Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin's misogynistic remarks about a female actor drew widespread condemnation. The TVK government's subsequent swift arrest and formidable charges against him are severely criticized as "executive overreach" and "politics of vendetta." Despite the DMK's defense, the article highlights the blurring lines between government and party. The Madras High Court ordered Udhayanidhi's release, but the incident questions the Vijay-led government's promise of a departure from past political practices. This heavy-handedness is seen as a significant misstep and an "own goal" for a party initially seen as a beacon of change.