News Headlines
Tamil Nadu: 'Erroneus And Far-Fetched To Interpret That I Suggested Changing Name Of State To 'Tamizhagam', Says Governor RN Ravi In Clarification
Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi
In a press note released by the Raj Bhavan today (18 January), Governor RN Ravi said his remarks regarding 'Tamizhagam' at an event to felicitate volunteers of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, were wrongly interpreted to mean that the Governor is against the word 'Tamil Nadu.'
He said that the comments were made by him while speaking about the historical and cultural connect between Kashi and Tamil Nadu and thus the reference to 'Tamizhagam' as a more appropriate expression was in a historical and cultural context.
He added that it was erroneous and far-fetched to interpret that he had suggested a name-change for the state.
The DMK and its allies had held protests all over the state against the Governor over these remarks.
They had burnt effigies of the Governor, raised slogans like ‘Vaazhga Tamil Nadu’ (Long Live Tamil Nadu) and put-up posters saying ‘Get Out Ravi.’
Later, DMK leaders like RS Bharathi and Sivaji Krishnamurthy made abusive remarks against the Governor.
In the days following the remarks, political observers felt that Ravi might have said so because he felt that ‘Tamil Nadu’ has separatist connotations as ‘Nadu’ has often been taken to mean ‘a nation or country.’
On the other hand, ‘Tamizhagam’ is usually used to mean ‘the Tamil land’, which while not having a separatist connotation, would however refer to areas belonging to neighbouring states and parts of Sri Lanka as well.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.
Latest
