Kumar Bahukhandi
RN Ravi, Governor of Tamil Nadu – Photo: ANI
Tamil Nadu Governor: This controversy over the Tamil Nadu Governor has come at a time when there is an election atmosphere across the country and the debate on issues like secularism is intensifying. Now it remains to be seen what decision the President’s Office takes in this matter and whether any action is taken against Governor Ravi or not.
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi is once again embroiled in controversy. This time he has been accused of making students chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’ during a college event. After this incident, the State Platform for Common School System-Tamil Nadu (SPCSS-TN), an organization of education experts, has demanded President Draupadi Murmu to remove the Governor from his post.
What is the whole matter?
Governor RN Ravi was invited as the chief guest to a government-aided college in Madurai on April 12, 2025 . The Governor had arrived there to give awards to the winners of a literary competition. During his speech, he asked the students to say ‘Jai Shri Ram’ three times. This is what has sparked controversy.
Why is the Governor being opposed?
SPCSS-TN says that by making people raise such slogans, the Governor has violated the spirit of secularism of the Constitution. The organization’s general secretary P.B. Prince Gajendra Babu said that the Governor’s act is a violation of Article 159 (Oath of Governor) of the Indian Constitution. He said, ‘India is a secular country and education is also a secular activity. In such a situation, making people raise slogans in the name of the God of a particular religion is not only wrong, but it is also against the constitutional responsibilities of the Governor.’
What does the Constitution say?
According to the Constitution, India is a secular nation. It is the duty of every citizen to follow the Constitution, respect its ideals and institutions, respect the national flag and the national anthem, and also develop a spirit of scientific thinking, humanity, and reform. The Governor, who takes an oath to protect, preserve and support the Constitution, is expected to follow the spirit of secularism and have an equal attitude towards all religions.
SPCSS-TN appeals to President
The organisation has appealed to President Draupadi Murmu to immediately remove the Governor from his post as he has violated his constitutional duties. The organisation also said that such an act is an attempt to give a communal colour to the education sector, which cannot be accepted.
