Political Turmoil in Tamil Nadu as Governor Walks Out of Assembly
The political scene in Tamil Nadu was thrown into chaos when Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the assembly during his inaugural address. His refusal to continue speaking was fueled by allegations of disrespect towards the national anthem and claims of misinformation in the government's speech. This incident marks a significant moment in the state's political landscape, as it highlights ongoing tensions between the Governor and the state government. With repeated claims of being silenced and a call for respect towards the national anthem, the Governor's actions have sparked widespread debate. The situation raises questions about the future of governance in Tamil Nadu and the relationship between state officials.
Jan 20, 2026, 16:05 IST
Unexpected Exit of Governor RN Ravi
On Tuesday, Tamil Nadu's political landscape was shaken when Governor R.N. Ravi abruptly left the assembly during the inaugural session of the year, abandoning his traditional address. Not only did he refuse to continue reading his speech, but he also leveled serious allegations against the state government and the assembly speaker.
Disrespect to National Anthem Unacceptable
"Disrespect to the National Anthem is Unacceptable"
During his brief remarks in the assembly, Governor Ravi expressed profound disappointment. He stated, "I am very disheartened. The national anthem did not receive the respect it deserves and should be honored appropriately."
Ravi insisted that the 'Tamil Anthem' (Tamil Thai Vazhthu) should be followed immediately by the national anthem at the session's start. When Speaker M. Appavu dismissed this request, the Governor chose to leave the assembly in protest. This marks the third occasion he has walked out after refusing to deliver his traditional speech over the past two years.
No Speech Delivered in 2024 and 2025
No Speech Delivered in 2024 and 2025
In both 2024 and 2025, the Governor also refrained from delivering a speech in the assembly. Last year, he exited the assembly for the same reason—his speech was not preceded by the national anthem.
Following the incident, Lok Bhavan, Tamil Nadu, issued a press release explaining the reasons behind Governor R.N. Ravi's departure before his inaugural address.
Repeated Mic Shutdowns
Repeated Shutdowns of the Governor's Mic
The press release stated, "The Governor's mic was repeatedly turned off, preventing him from speaking... Atrocities against Dalits and sexual violence against Dalit women are on the rise. However, this was completely ignored in the speech... The national anthem has once again been disrespected, and fundamental constitutional duties have been overlooked."
Birthday Wishes from Lok Sabha Speaker
Separately, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla extended birthday wishes to Tamil Nadu's Speaker, M. Appavu. Birla posted on X, "Warm birthday wishes to Shri M. Appavu, Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Assembly. May you be blessed with good health, happiness, and longevity."
Three Major Allegations: Disrespect, Misinformation, and Mic Shutdown
Three Major Allegations: Disrespect, Misinformation, and Mic Shutdown
Before walking out, the Governor made sharp criticisms in the assembly:
Misinformation: He claimed that the speech prepared by the government was 'factually incorrect' and that he could not read statements that were untrue.
Mic Shutdown: The Governor alleged that his mic was turned off while he was speaking.
Disrespect: He labeled the incident as a personal affront to himself and his office.