Resolution Passed in Tamil Nadu Assembly: ‘Tamil Thai Vaalthu’ Mandatory at the Start of Official Events

A significant development regarding language and cultural identity has taken place in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on Monday unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, making it mandatory to sing the state anthem, ‘Tamil Thai Vaalthu’, at the beginning of official government events.

According to the resolution, ‘Tamil Thai Vaalthu’ must be rendered at the start of functions in government offices, government undertakings, educational institutions, universities, and other official events across Tamil Nadu. The resolution introduced by Chief Minister Vijay received support from both the ruling party and opposition parties. Members from the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, PMK, VCK, CPI, BJP, Indian Union Muslim League, and other parties voiced their support, leading to the unanimous adoption of the resolution.

While introducing the resolution in the Assembly, CM Vijay grew emotional, stating, “Tamil is not just a spoken language; it is our way of life, our emotion, and a bond tied to our cultural roots.”

Where Did the Controversy Begin?

The controversy erupted in May this year during an event at a university in Tamil Nadu, where the state anthem, ‘Tamil Thai Vaalthu’, was sung after the National Anthem and the National Song. Some raised objections to the Governor suggesting that it be rendered in that order. Furthermore, when MLAs from Vijay’s party took their oaths, the Tamil state anthem was also sung in the third position. Against this backdrop, a letter was sent to the Governor requesting that singing the state anthem first at official events be made mandatory.