Director Pa Ranjith took to social media to condemn the violence perpetrated against a migrant worker from Odisha. The incident took place on a local EMU train in the Chennai-Tiruttani line, on December 27.

Taking to his X handle the director wrote, "My heart trembles in horror at the inhuman brutality that took place in Thiruthani, Thiruvallur district! In recent times, the reckless attitude of those in power who have failed to curb the growing drug culture in Tamil Nadu is the primary reason for such incidents. The fact that such criminal acts are rampant even in schools and colleges, and this has been viewed with indifference, is what has led to the mob mentality today—where groups brazenly act without any fear in public spaces. It is time for us to recognize our own responsibility in this situation and act accordingly. Liberty, equality, and fraternity—these are the foundational principles of the Indian Constitution."

He added, "We must never undermine them in any way. We should strive to erase the differences among us and uphold fraternity. Instead, acting out of a hateful mindset that labels someone as a "Vadakkan (Northie)" will only pave the way for social disintegration."

Elaborating more on why the label Vadakkan (Northie), is dangerous, the director wrote, "This "Vadakkan (Northie)" mindset is an extremely dangerous trend. From "humorous" posts to harsh verbal exchanges, this attitude continues to manifest on social media and in our everyday conversations. The toxic notion of viewing those who come to our region for survival as people who have stolen our opportunities exists all over the world. The only way to eradicate this is by fostering fraternity among people. Fellow human beings must respect the individual freedoms and rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution—that alone is true righteousness. Furthermore, those who gather in mobs in public spaces, brutally assault an innocent young man with vicious weapons, record it on video, and share it on social media out of a sense of pride must be identified by the police, arrested, and given the maximum punishment."

He added, "Moreover, to prevent minors and youth, in their obsession with social media, from banding together in ways that create tension in society or incite violence—such as posting reels—the authorities and police must take proactive measures without delay. We must not approach these issues by treating drug culture, weapon culture, and social division as isolated factors. They are all interconnected."

Ranjith concluded his note by writing, "We strongly urge the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that such incidents never happen again under any circumstances!"

The migrant worker was later admitted to the hospital and was treated for cuts on his head, hand, and cheeks. The Tiruttani Town police arrested four 17-year olds, who perpetrated the crime.