Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi has stirred controversy with his remarks at the Hindi Month Celebrations, stating that there has been a consistent attempt to isolate Tamil Nadu from the rest of India. He claimed that opposition to Hindi is being used as an excuse and that “poison” has been spread to disconnect the state from the country.
Governor Ravi’s comments came during the Closing Ceremony of Hindi Month Celebrations at the DD Tamil Office in Chennai, where he was the special guest. His speech drew sharp reactions from various quarters, with many viewing it as an attempt to impose Hindi.
Governor Ravi: Forces Seeking to Disconnect Tamil Nadu from India for 50 Years
Ravi emphasized that Hindi is not imposed and that all languages are celebrated under Prime Minister Modi’s regime. He noted that 27 states have adopted trilingualism, while Tamil Nadu refuses to allow any language as a third option.
The Governor questioned the motives of those opposing Hindi, asking what Tamil speakers have done to promote their language at the national level. He highlighted the central government’s initiatives to promote Tamil and criticized those who seek to separate Tamil Nadu from India.
Chief Minister MK Stalin had earlier written to Prime Minister Modi, expressing concerns that celebrating Hindi Month in non-Hindi speaking states undermines other languages. Governor Ravi’s comments have further fueled the debate on language and identity in Tamil Nadu.
Ravi’s three-year tenure as Governor has seen increased tensions between the state and central governments. His remarks have sparked outrage among many, with opposition leaders condemning his statements as divisive and provocative. The controversy highlights the sensitive nature of language politics in India.