Tamil Nadu Anthem Controversy: Stalin Demands Governor's Removal Over Omission

Tamil Nadu Anthem Controversy: CM Stalin Criticizes Governor RN Ravi Over 'Dravidian' Omission

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has raised strong objections against Governor RN Ravi following the omission of the word 'Dravidian' from the state anthem 'Tamil Thai Vaazhthu' during a Hindi Month closing ceremony in Chennai. The incident, which occurred on Friday, has sparked a major political controversy.

The governor's office, however, denied Stalin's allegations, stating that the omission was unintentional. According to the governor’s media advisor, RN Ravi was merely attending the event, and the choir singing the anthem accidentally left out the word 'Dravidian.' The advisor emphasized that the organizers were promptly informed of the mistake, and corrective actions are being taken.

Stalin’s Strong Criticism

Chief Minister Stalin did not hold back in his criticism, asking if the governor had the courage to remove the word 'Dravidian' from the national anthem as well. He labeled the omission as an insult to the state of Tamil Nadu and its language. In his public remarks, Stalin called for the immediate removal of Governor RN Ravi, accusing him of having an "allergy to Dravidian values."

Stalin further stated, "Removing the word 'Dravidian' from the anthem is a violation of Tamil Nadu's law. A person who does not follow the law and acts according to their own will is not fit to hold office. By doing this under the guise of celebrating India, the governor is insulting the unity of the nation and the people of Tamil Nadu."

He went on to say, "Will the governor, who is suffering from Dravidian allergy, dare to remove 'Dravidian' from the national anthem? The central government must immediately recall the governor, who is deliberately disrespecting Tamil Nadu and its people."

Reactions from Kamal Haasan

The controversy also drew reactions from actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, who condemned the removal of the word 'Dravidian' from the anthem. Haasan tweeted that the word has a place not only in 'Tamil Thai Vaazhthu' but also in the national anthem. He criticized the political motives behind the omission, calling it an insult to Tamil Nadu, its people, and the ancient Tamil language.

Haasan warned, "If you spit out hate, Tamil Nadu will spit fire. I strongly condemn this act."

The controversy surrounding the omission of 'Dravidian' has sparked intense debate in Tamil Nadu, with political leaders and public figures demanding accountability and respect for the state's cultural heritage.