Governor walks out of Tamil Nadu Assembly, cites National Anthem; CM Stalin condemns action

Chennai – Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi walked out of the assembly on Tuesday, refusing to deliver an address prepared by the DMK government. A video showed him exiting the building and leaving in his car. The Governor later issued a 13-point statement, alleging the speech contained inaccuracies, unsubstantiated claims, and insulted the national anthem.

“The speech contains numerous misleading statements. Several crucial issues troubling the people are ignored. The national anthem is insulted, and the constitutional duty is disregarded,” the statement said.

The assembly session began with the Tamil anthem. The Governor disputed the DMK government’s claim that Tamil Nadu attracted investments worth over Rs 12 crore. He said many agreements with investors remain on paper, and actual investments are only a fraction. “Tamil Nadu, which ranked fourth in foreign direct investment four years ago, is now struggling to stay sixth,” the statement read.

Ravi also highlighted rising crime and safety concerns. He said women’s safety was ignored despite over 55% rise in POCSO cases and a 33% increase in molestation reports. He pointed to growing atrocities against Dalits, especially Dalit women, that the government failed to address.

Education was another key issue. Ravi noted a decline in standards and mismanagement in institutions. He said more than 50% of faculty positions remain vacant, guest faculty are restless, and the youth face an uncertain future. “The government seems indifferent, and the issue is completely bypassed,” he added.

CM MK Stalin reacted sharply. He called the Governor’s walkout “unacceptable” and claimed it violated assembly traditions. Stalin said the DMK-prepared address did not require the Governor to add his views. “The Governor should support government actions. Instead, RN Ravi is acting against it,” he said.

Stalin accused Ravi of deliberately undermining the House and the government. He piloted a resolution stating the English version of the speech was assumed to have been read. Stalin stressed that such behaviour by a constitutional authority amounts to insulting the assembly.

The controversy reflects growing tensions between the Tamil Nadu government and the Governor’s office. While the DMK emphasizes governance and development, the Governor raised issues on investment, safety, and education. Analysts say the incident highlights friction in state-centre relations, with the Governor’s role under scrutiny.

The assembly session resumed after the walkout, but the debate over the Governor’s conduct dominated proceedings. Opposition leaders largely supported the Governor’s criticisms, while DMK legislators backed Stalin’s condemnation.

The situation remains tense as both sides maintain firm positions. The Governor insists on highlighting lapses, while the CM emphasizes protocol and respect for the assembly’s decorum. The incident is expected to spark further political debate in Tamil Nadu and beyond.