Chennai , 10 August (H.S.):
Chief Minister Vijay’s move to accord Tamil Thai Vazhthu precedence at official events received unanimous backing in the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Monday, with legislators across the political spectrum supporting a special resolution moved by him.
The resolution mandates that the State song be rendered first at functions conducted by government departments, educational institutions and other government organisations. It was adopted by a voice vote after representatives of the ruling and Opposition parties endorsed the proposal.
The rare show of unanimity saw the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, PMK, VCK, CPI, BJP and Indian Union Muslim League come together in support of the measure. Speaker J C D Prabhakar formally announced its unanimous adoption.
Introducing the resolution, Vijay described Tamil as central to the State’s cultural identity and said according priority to Tamil Thai Vazhthu at official events was linked to safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s traditions and cultural rights. He urged members not to turn the issue into a political controversy.
The Chief Minister said the song, taken from Manonmaniam by Manonmaniam Sundaranar, had been sung at the beginning of government functions since 1970. Tamil Thai Vazhthu was officially recognised as Tamil Nadu’s State song in 2021.
Vijay also referred to a July 1, 2026 communication from the Union Home Ministry concerning State songs while seeking support from all parties.
Speaking for the DMK, MLA Govi Chezhian recalled that former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi had issued the government order introducing Tamil Thai Vazhthu at official functions. He also referred to the December 17, 2021 order issued under former Chief Minister M K Stalin making its rendition mandatory.
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami backed the resolution, describing Tamil Thai Vazhthu as a symbol of Tamil language and culture. He maintained that pride in Tamil and patriotism were not contradictory.
The unanimous vote turned the resolution into a collective declaration by the House that Tamil Thai Vazhthu should retain its place of precedence at government and educational functions across Tamil Nadu.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
