Mon Jan 06 18:50:05 UTC 2025: ## Governor Walks Out of Tamil Nadu Assembly Amidst Anthem Dispute

**Chennai, [Date]** – A political storm is brewing in Tamil Nadu following Governor R.N. Ravi’s abrupt exit from the state assembly on Monday. The Governor, protesting what he termed disrespect to the Constitution and national anthem, left after less than five minutes, refusing to deliver the customary address.

BJP state president K. Annamalai has accused the ruling DMK government of attempting to deflect public anger over its governance by blaming the Governor. Annamalai claims the government’s actions violate established protocol regarding the playing of the national anthem and the state song, “Tamil Thai Vazhthu.”

Annamalai highlighted that, contrary to the DMK’s claims, “Tamil Thai Vazhthu” was not recited before the Governor’s address in the Assembly until 1991, when it was introduced under then Chief Minister Jayalalitha’s administration, along with the national anthem. He cited government records and central government directives based on the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act of 1971, which mandates the playing of the national anthem upon the Governor’s arrival and departure from official functions.

While the DMK government introduced “Tamil Thai Vazhthu” as the opening recitation for government functions in 1970, Annamalai contends that this tradition did not extend to the Governor’s address until decades later. He further criticized the government’s refusal to play the national anthem after the state song.

Annamalai urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to focus on addressing pressing issues, such as a recent sexual assault at Anna University, rather than engaging in political maneuvering. He advocated for the consistent playing of both the state and national anthems before and after the Governor’s address, respectively.

TVK chief Vijay, while acknowledging the Assembly’s tradition of playing both anthems, expressed concern over the escalating conflict between the Governor and the government, deeming it detrimental to democracy. The incident continues to fuel political tensions in the state.

Read More