The Law Minister of Tamil Nadu has clarified today (25 July) that portraits of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, also known as the architect of the Indian Constitution, can still be displayed in courts across the state.

This clarification comes after protests from lawyers following an alleged order from the Madras High Court, that only portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and revered Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar would be allowed.

In response to the protests, the state's Law Minister, S Regupathy, met with the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court S V Gangapurwala, on the instruction of Chief Minister M K Stalin.

In a statement, the Law Minister conveyed the state government's position and the Chief Justice assured that no such order was ever passed.

Therefore, the status quo will continue to be maintained.

According to reports, several advocate associations had requested permission to display portraits of Dr Ambedkar.

However, an alleged circular stated that these requests had been rejected in a full bench meeting of the High Court on 11 April, 2023.

The Registrar General of the Madras High Court has reportedly refused the requests of various associations and ordered the removal of Dr Ambedkar's portrait in the court and court premises.

Protesting lawyers expressed their disapproval and demanded the withdrawal of the circular that resulted in the removal of pictures from display in courts.

Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai expressed his disappointment through a tweet upon hearing this news.

Thol. Thirumavalavan, the leader of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), also strongly opposed the recent circular and issued a warning of widespread demonstrations across all districts of Tamil Nadu, if the circular was not withdrawn.