DMK Initiates ‘Get Out Ravi’ Movement Targeting TN Governor Following Legislative Assembly Dispute
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Chennai, Jan 7 (NationPress) The DMK has initiated a poster initiative against Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi after his exit from the state Legislative Assembly on the first day of the session.
The party has also declared a series of statewide protests against the Governor in all districts.
The dispute originated on January 6, when the Governor left the Assembly in protest, citing “disrespect” to the Constitution and the National Anthem.
According to Assembly tradition, the state song 'Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu' is performed at the beginning of the session, and the national anthem is played at its conclusion.
The Governor raised objections regarding the absence of the National Anthem at the session's commencement.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin condemned the Governor’s actions, labeling them as “childish”.
He accused Ravi of continuously insulting the people of Tamil Nadu, the elected government, and the Legislative Assembly, further stating that his conduct was inappropriate for his position.
The DMK’s Chennai West faction launched a poster campaign throughout the city targeting both the Governor and the Leader of Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami.
The posters prominently display the faces of Ravi and Palaniswami along with the hashtag #GetOutRavi.
One slogan roughly translates to: “The Governor who violates, and the AIADMK-BJP secret alliance that will save him.”
The controversy escalated when AIADMK chief Palaniswami led his party members into the Assembly wearing badges that read “Yaar Antha Sir?” (Who is that Sir?), alluding to the recent Anna University sexual assault case.
The AIADMK MLAs were subsequently expelled from the House.
Senior DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister S. Duraimurugan criticized the Governor’s walkout, calling it a breach of constitutional duties.
Under Article 176 of the Constitution, the Governor is obliged to deliver the customary address at the commencement of the Assembly session. Duraimurugan condemned Ravi’s actions, pointing out that the Speaker of the House, M. Appavu, had previously clarified the protocol.
Traditionally, Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu is sung before the Governor’s address, and the National Anthem is played at the conclusion of the session. He accused Ravi of consistently disregarding these established traditions and questioned his motives. Duraimurugan further highlighted that the people of Tamil Nadu, the state government, and the Legislative Assembly have always exhibited unwavering respect for the National Anthem, the Constitution, and the principles of patriotism and national unity. The DMK’s campaign and protests signify the latest development in the strained relationship between the ruling party and the Governor.
