Tamil Nadu Governor Skips Key Speech, Cites Disrespect to National Anthem
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the State Legislative Assembly on January 20, 2026, without delivering the customary address, marking the third consecutive year he has done so. The Governor cited a lack of respect for the national anthem as the reason for his departure.
Disagreement Over National Anthem
Governor Ravi requested that the national anthem be played after the Tamil anthem at the beginning of the proceedings. However, Speaker M. Appavu declined this request, citing the established convention of playing the Tamil anthem at the beginning and the national anthem at the end of the session.
Governor's Explanation
Following the walkout, Raj Bhavan issued a statement asserting that the Governor's microphone was repeatedly switched off and that he was not allowed to speak. The statement also claimed that the prepared speech contained inaccuracies and unsubstantiated claims, and that crucial issues, such as atrocities against Dalits and sexual violence against Dalit women, were ignored. The Governor's office also alleged that the state government's claims of attracting investments worth over ₹12 lakh crores were far from the truth.
Assembly's Response
Speaker M. Appavu urged the Governor to adhere to the established rules and customs of the Assembly. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin criticized the Governor's actions as insulting to the people of Tamil Nadu and the Assembly.
Political Reactions
The AIADMK staged a walkout from the Assembly, protesting against the DMK-led state government, citing law and order issues.
Past Incidents
This is not the first time Governor Ravi has clashed with the Tamil Nadu government. In 2023, he omitted portions of the speech that hailed Dravidian leaders and added his own sections. In 2025, he walked out of the Assembly, citing disrespect to the national anthem.
Conclusion
Governor R.N. Ravi's walkout from the Tamil Nadu Assembly on January 20, 2026, marks another instance of conflict between the Governor and the state government. The disagreement over the national anthem and the content of the Governor's address highlights the ongoing tensions between Raj Bhavan and the DMK-led administration.
