Tamil Nadu Government and DMK to Skip Governor's Republic Day Reception

Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government has confirmed its boycott of the Republic Day tea gathering hosted by Governor R.N. Ravi at the Raj Bhavan on January 26, citing ongoing tensions and alleged obstruction by the Governor.
Key Takeaways
- The Tamil Nadu government will not attend the Governor's Republic Day reception.
- DMK and other parties join the boycott in protest of the Governor's actions.
- Accusations against the Governor include hindering the state's legislative processes.
- Political tensions in Tamil Nadu continue to escalate.
- Governor's traditional role is challenged amidst local political disputes.
Chennai, Jan 25 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government has declared its intention to boycott the Republic Day tea gathering hosted by Governor R.N. Ravi at the Raj Bhavan on January 26.
This decision is a response to the Governor's purported actions, which the ruling party claims hinder its operations.
The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), under the leadership of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, announced that no representatives from the party will attend the Republic Day festivities. Other political entities, including Congress, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), and various Left-wing parties, have also opted out of the reception.
MDMK General Secretary Vaiko accused the Governor of undermining the state government since taking office.
He criticized R.N. Ravi for delaying endorsement of bills passed by the Legislative Assembly and claimed the Governor is promoting a Hindutva agenda, which contradicts the principles of the Constitution.
Vaiko stated: "MDMK has been demanding the removal of R.N. Ravi as Governor. He has consistently operated as an agent of Hindutva principles and violated constitutional norms."
Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) President K. Selvaperunthagai also accused the Governor of acting against the state's and its citizens' interests.
In a social media statement, he pointed out the delays in appointing Vice-Chancellors for state universities and criticized Ravi for rejecting bills passed by the Legislative Assembly.
Condemning the Governor's actions, Communist Party of India (Marxist) State Secretary P. Shanmugam stated: "The Governor has disrespected the Constitution, cooperative federalism, and the authority of the Legislative Assembly. He has lost the moral right to remain as the Governor of Tamil Nadu."
The VCK shared similar sentiments, stressing that the Governor's actions jeopardize the state's autonomy.
In an unexpected political development, the Raj Bhavan invited Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader and actor Vijay to join the reception.
While invitations have been sent to various political leaders, Vijay's potential participation has generated speculation. It remains uncertain whether the actor will attend the event.
Traditionally, the Governor hosts a tea gathering at Raj Bhavan on Republic Day.
Nevertheless, the relationship between the Tamil Nadu government and Governor R.N. Ravi has been fraught with tension. Despite this, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and his cabinet members attended the Independence Day reception held by the Governor on August 15, 2024, as part of national celebrations.