Tamil Nadu Minister Boycotts University Convocation Over Governor's Remarks
In a strong political statement, Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhiaan boycotted the 40th convocation of Bharathiar University on Saturday. His action was a direct protest against Governor R N Ravi, whom he accused of insulting the Tamil Nadu assembly's decorum and the state's students.
Condemnation of Governor's Conduct
Speaking to reporters after a DMK manifesto committee meeting in Coimbatore, Chezhiaan alleged that Governor Ravi has repeatedly belittled the state's higher education system. He stated that the governor's remarks questioning the standards of Tamil Nadu students are unwarranted, especially given the state's strong standing in higher education. Chezhiaan emphasized that such comments show a profound lack of understanding and respect for the academic achievements in the region.
Furthermore, the minister accused the governor of undermining the dignity and traditions of the Tamil Nadu assembly. He specifically referred to Ravi's walkout during an assembly address, labeling it as a disrespectful act that tarnishes the institution's honor. Chezhiaan made it clear that his boycott was a symbolic gesture to highlight these grievances.
Future Engagement and Political Context
Chezhiaan set a condition for future cooperation, stating, "If the governor respects the Tamil people and the honor of the assembly, I will consider sharing platforms with him in the future." This statement underscores the ongoing tension between the state government and the governor's office, reflecting broader political dynamics in Tamil Nadu.
The convocation proceeded with Governor Ravi presenting degrees to students, but Chezhiaan's absence sent a clear message of dissent. The minister's boycott aligns with his role in the DMK party, which is actively preparing for the 2026 assembly elections.
DMK Manifesto and Governance Achievements
During the same event, Chezhiaan and former minister V Senthil Balaji participated in a public consultation meeting for the DMK's 2026 assembly election manifesto preparation committee. They received petitions from various organizations, highlighting the party's efforts to engage with the public ahead of the polls.
Chezhiaan also took the opportunity to critique the previous AIADMK government, accusing them of failing to implement free bus travel for senior citizens above 60 years of age. He defended the DMK's governance record, noting that the first two years of their term were impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, and the third year faced challenges from heavy rain and floods.
Despite these obstacles, Chezhiaan claimed that economic growth picked up in the fourth year. He asserted that within two years, Tamil Nadu has emerged as one of the leading states in economic growth, a fact he said is acknowledged by the Union government. The minister added that among the promises made by the DMK, only those requiring cooperation from the Union government remain pending, while others have been successfully implemented.
This incident at Bharathiar University convocation not only highlights the ongoing friction between state and central authorities but also sets the stage for the upcoming electoral battles in Tamil Nadu.
