Tamil Nadu Governor Sparks Controversy Over State Anthem

Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam cadres protested against Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi for allegedly acting against Tamil interests, including attempting changes to the state anthem. The protests followed a distorted anthem rendition during an event, prompting a backlash from state leaders, including demands for the Governor's recall.

Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam (DVK) cadres staged a protest against Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Saturday, accusing him of actions detrimental to Tamil people's interests. The protest involved sending over 1,000 postcards to Raj Bhavan, accompanied by the 'Tamil Thai' greeting, attacking the Governor's recent policies.

Edward Prabhakaran, DVK's district organiser, criticized the Governor for allegedly wanting to modify the state's anthem and for refusing to acknowledge Dravidian icons like Periyar and Ambedkar. Prabhakaran accused RN Ravi of diminishing the Tamil identity through his actions and words, particularly regarding the state's anthem.

The controversy arose when a distorted version of the anthem was played at Doordarshan Chennai's golden jubilee celebrations, missing a line significant to Dravidian history. This prompted reactions from prominent state leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who urged the Union Government to recall the Governor.

Chief Minister MK Stalin questioned the Governor's allegiance while condemning the anthem's rendition, with Ravi responding that such remarks lowered the dignity of the office. Stalin reiterated calls for the Governor's recall, condemning alleged disrespect towards Tamil Nadu's heritage and people.

(With inputs from agencies.)