Why Is the DMK Student Wing Protesting Against the Centre's Stance on the Keeladi Excavation Report?
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Synopsis
The DMK's student faction and Dravidar Kazhagam have rallied against the Union government's dismissal of archaeological findings from Keeladi. These protests highlight a growing tension over Tamil heritage and the significance of ancient urban civilization along the Vaigai river.
Key Takeaways
- The DMK's Student Wing and Dravidar Kazhagam protested against the Centre's stance on Keeladi excavation findings.
- Protesters accuse the government of ignoring Tamil heritage.
- Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat questioned the validity of the excavation reports.
- CM M.K. Stalin criticized the Centre for overlooking credible evidence.
- Keeladi excavation reveals signs of ancient urban settlements.
Chennai, June 18 (NationPress) The Student Wing of the DMK and Dravidar Kazhagam organized a protest in Chennai on Wednesday, denouncing the Union government for its refusal to acknowledge the archaeological discoveries from the Keeladi excavation in Sivaganga district, Tamil Nadu.
The demonstration also focused on the contentious transfer of archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishna, who spearheaded two phases of the Keeladi excavations.
Protesters accused the Centre of obscuring Tamil heritage and undermining initiatives aimed at highlighting the existence of an ancient urban civilization along the Vaigai river. The protests intensified after Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat remarked on June 10 that the reports submitted to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) by Ramakrishna were “not technically well-supported”.
He further asserted that additional scientific investigations were required to substantiate the conclusions derived from the site.
In a response, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin criticized the Centre’s position on Tuesday, accusing it of purposefully overlooking credible evidence of Tamil civilization.
In a strongly worded post on social media, CM Stalin stated, “How many obstacles are there for our Tamil race? For thousands of years, we have resisted all of them, establishing the greatness of our heritage with the support of science. Yet, some minds still refuse to accept it. It is not the reports that need correction; it is some hearts!”
He also urged the public to join the DMK Student Wing’s extensive protest planned in Madurai.
“Let us gather in Veeranoor to express the collective sentiment of Tamil identity and historical pride,” he encouraged.
The Keeladi excavation, which began in 2015, revealed remnants of urban settlements that experts believe could trace back to the Sangam era.
Findings from the site—including pottery, brick structures, and graffiti—have fueled debates suggesting that Tamil civilization had developed literacy and urban planning centuries before similar advancements appeared elsewhere. This issue has gained political dimensions, with the DMK and allied groups framing the Centre’s hesitance as part of a broader trend of neglecting Dravidian history.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the cultural significance of the Keeladi findings. The protests reflect a deep-seated desire among the Tamil community to assert their historical identity, which must be approached with sensitivity and respect. While the Centre calls for further validation, the voices of the people echo a rich cultural legacy that deserves recognition.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Keeladi excavation?
The Keeladi excavation is an archaeological site in Tamil Nadu that has uncovered evidence of an ancient urban civilization, potentially dating back to the Sangam era.
Why are the DMK and Dravidar Kazhagam protesting?
They are protesting against the Union government's refusal to acknowledge the significance of the archaeological findings from the Keeladi site.
