Twenty-one MPs from the INDIA bloc have written to the Governor of Tamil Nadu to restore the official protocol for the state anthem [1].
The request follows a breach of long-standing state convention during a recent university convocation. The dispute centers on cultural identity and the hierarchy of official ceremonies within the state.
The lawmakers, including members from the Congress party and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katcheri (VCK), addressed their letter to Raj Bhavan, the Governor’s residence [1]. They requested that the Tamil state anthem, “Tamil Thai Vazhthu,” be played first at all government and university functions [1].
According to the MPs, the anthem was placed third in the order of songs at a recent university event [1]. This sequence contradicts the established state protocol that mandates the state anthem precede other songs, a tradition the lawmakers seek to reinstate.
Congress MP Karti Chidambaram emphasized the importance of the existing rules. "The official state protocol clearly mandates that government functions commence with Tamizh Thai Vaazhthu," Chidambaram said [1].
The INDIA bloc represents a coalition of opposition parties. By coordinating this request, the 21 MPs [1] are signaling a unified front on the preservation of regional linguistic and cultural symbols in official settings.
The letter calls for a formal directive from the Governor's office to ensure that all future state-sponsored events adhere to the original protocol [1].
“The official state protocol clearly mandates that government functions commence with Tamizh Thai Vaazhthu.”
This move reflects the ongoing tension between regional cultural identity and centralized administrative protocols in India. By demanding the primacy of 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu,' the INDIA bloc is reinforcing the political importance of Tamil linguistic pride, which remains a potent electoral and social force in the state.
