Tamil Nadu: 'Erroneus And Far-Fetched To Interpret That I Suggested Changing Name Of State To 'Tamizhagam', Says Governor RN Ravi In Clarification

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.

Also Read: Dravidian Tamil Nadu Vs Ancient Tamilakam: Fracas Over Governor Ravi’s Remarks