T.N. Assembly: National anthem is sung at the beginning and end of Governor’s address, says Raj Bhavan

Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi. File
| Photo Credit: R. Ashok

Hours after Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the Assembly without reading out his customary speech in the House, taking exception to the national anthem not being played at the beginning of his address, the Raj Bhavan, in a statement, said that the national anthem was sung or played at the beginning and end of the Governor’s address in every State Assembly in the country.

When the national anthem was not played, the Governor reminded the Assembly of its Constitutional duty and appealed to the Chief Minister and Speaker to sing or play it, the Raj Bhavan said. However, Mr. Ravi was “cussedly refused,” it contended.

“Not singing or playing the national anthem at the beginning of the Governor’s address is a blatant disrespect to the Constitution and the national anthem. In deep anguish, the Governor left the House. The Governor reaffirms his commitment to upholding the constitutional values and to restore respect for the national anthem in all State functions while upholding the Tamil pride,” an official release said.

The Raj Bhavan further said: “It is also mandatory, as per the National Anthem Code. Even after repeated reminders conveyed well in advance, it is unfortunate that these requests were deliberately ignored. The Governor reiterated his unwavering love, respect, and admiration for the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, including its language, culture, and traditions.”

The Governor has always upheld the sanctity of the Tamil State song, Tamil Thaai Vazhthu, and sings it with reverence at every event, it maintained. “Tamil, the world’s oldest and most celebrated language, holds a unique place in the hearts of countless Indians, and the Governor shares this sentiment wholeheartedly. In every capacity, the Governor has supported the promotion of Tamil culture and language, both within the State and on national platforms,” it said.

It was “the duty of the Governor to respect the Constitution and follow the Constitutional duties. Respect to the national anthem is a Fundamental Duty enshrined in the Constitution, it is also a matter of national pride,” the Raj Bhavan said.