Why this urgent support for an allegation that has no credible evidence: Director-cinematographer Vijay Milton backs Vairamuthu

Ace cinematographer and well-known director Vijay Milton has come out in support of lyricist Vairamuthu against whom a number of women, including singer Chinmayi Sripaada, have levelled sexual harrassment allegations in the wake of the #MeToo movement.

Taking to Facebook, Vijay Milton wrote in Tamil, "Vairamuthu is not just a poet or an artiste. He is one of the many identities of Tamil Nadu. He has won several National Awards and brought glory to Tamil Nadu. He has created several epic compositions and brought glory to the Tamil language. Today, he has been accused of sexual harrassment by singer Chinmayi."

"There may or may not be truth in what Chinmayi says. However, the media, which is going by just her words alone, seems to be ruining Vairamuthu's popularity through talk shows, debates and discussions. Suppose in case Chinmayi's allegations are found to be untrue at a later date, will these people who are competing with one another to ruin Vairamuthu's reputation take responsibility?"

"Why this urgent support for an allegation that has no credible evidence? Chinmayi raising her voice is her right. I am not faulting her for that. However, Tamil voices are destroying somebody who lived as an integral part of Tamil. Tamilians, don't make someone who is living for Tamil regret being born as a Tamilian. In case, justice is on Vairamuthu's side, his curse will not let us escape. I believe that what we need in this issue is patience. The tree which bears fruit is bound to receive blows through stones. But remember that the tree that is bearing the blows in this case is a Tamil tree. Tamilians, be patient. Let that which is the truth win [sic]!"

Vijay Milton's support to Vairamuthu comes at a time when Chinmayi has said that she and the other women who levelled allegations against Vairamuthu are considering filing a case against him. Vairamuthu, for his part, has said that he is prepared to face the cases.