TN Guv refuses to read govt speech on ‘factual and moral’ grounds

The initial session of the Tamil Nadu Assembly in 2024 took an unexpected turn when Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi declined to read the customary government-prepared address, citing “factual and moral grounds.” He expressed disagreement with several passages in the address and stated that lending his voice to them would be a constitutional travesty. The Governor highlighted his previous requests for due respect to the national anthem, which were ignored. He concluded his address, wishing the house a productive discussion.

Subsequently, Tamil Nadu Assembly speaker M. Appavu began reading the Tamil interpretation of the Governor’s speech. Acknowledging the Governor’s approval for the customary address, the speaker refrained from blaming him for not reading the entire speech. The speaker emphasized treating the Governor with respect despite differing opinions. He urged the Governor to express his true feelings, addressing issues such as the impact of floods and cyclones and the lack of funds for relief efforts.

In a subtle jab at the Governor, the speaker remarked, “The Tamil Nadu Assembly is not less than those who walk on the path of Savarkar and Godse.” Following the completion of the speaker’s address, the Governor left the house without waiting for the customary singing of the national anthem.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly subsequently passed a resolution considering the Governor’s address as fully delivered, encompassing the portions that were not read out. Similar incidents occurred on January 9, 2023, when Governor RN Ravi hastily left the assembly after a resolution was adopted to expunge certain portions of his speech from the house records.