TN Governor Ravi Walks Out Over National Anthem Dispute
Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi created a major stir in the State Legislative Assembly on Tuesday. He walked out of the house without delivering the customary opening address. This dramatic move came after Speaker Appavu refused his request to play the national anthem following the Tamil Anthem.
Third Walkout in Two Years
This incident marks the third time Governor Ravi has staged a walkout in the past two years. Each time, he has skipped the traditional address to the assembly. The latest protest centers on what he calls an insult to the national anthem.
Ravi wanted the national anthem played after the Tamil Anthem during the session. When the Speaker denied this request, the Governor decided to leave the assembly hall. His departure happened on the opening day of the first session of the year.
Lok Bhavan Issues Clarification
Tamil Nadu's Lok Bhavan later released a press statement explaining the Governor's actions. The statement made several strong claims about the events in the assembly.
The Governor's microphone was repeatedly switched off during the session. Officials prevented him from speaking to the house. The press release also highlighted concerns about rising atrocities against Dalits and sexual violence against Dalit women.
According to the statement, these critical issues were completely ignored in the prepared speech. Lok Bhavan emphasized that the national anthem faced disrespect once again. They argued that this disregard violates fundamental constitutional duties.
Political Reactions and Walkouts
The opposition AIADMK party joined the protest against the ruling DMK-led government. AIADMK members staged their own walkout from the Assembly session. This double walkout created significant disruption in the legislative proceedings.
Chief Minister MK Stalin responded strongly to the Governor's actions. He condemned Ravi's move as disrespectful to the legislative house. The DMK leader stated that refusing to deliver the customary address goes against assembly protocols.
Stalin criticized what he called deteriorating law and order in Tamil Nadu. He said the Governor's behavior insults the century-old assembly tradition. The Chief Minister recalled a famous phrase from former leader CN Annadurai.
"Why does a goat need a beard, and why does a state need a Governor?" Stalin quoted this rhetorical question to emphasize his point. He suggested the Governor's role has become unnecessary in the current political climate.
Ongoing Tensions in Tamil Nadu Politics
This incident reveals the deepening tensions between the Governor's office and the state government. The walkout represents more than just a procedural dispute. It reflects broader conflicts over protocol, symbolism, and political authority.
The national anthem issue has become a recurring flashpoint in Tamil Nadu politics. Different interpretations of constitutional duties continue to create friction. Both sides appear entrenched in their positions with little room for compromise.
Observers note that such confrontations may become more frequent. The relationship between the Governor and the elected government remains strained. This affects the normal functioning of legislative business in the state.
Tuesday's events demonstrate how symbolic acts can escalate into major political confrontations. The assembly session began with controversy instead of cooperation. All parties now face questions about how to move forward constructively.
