National anthem is sung at beginning, end of Governor’s address: Raj Bhavan

National anthem is sung at beginning, end of Governor’s address: Raj Bhavan

The Governor reaffirms his commitment  to upholding the constitutional values

Raj Bhavan statement

The Hindu Bureau

CHENNAI  07.01.2025


Hours after Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the Assembly without reading his customary speech, taking exception to the national anthem not being played at the start of his address, the Raj Bhavan said in a statement that the national anthem was sung or played at the beginning and end of the Governor’s address in every 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 the Speaker to sing or play it, the Raj Bhavan said. However, Mr. Ravi was “cussedly refused”, the statement said.

“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 restoring 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 had always upheld the sanctity of the Tamil State song, Tamil Thai Vaazhthu, and sang 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.