Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi has issued a strong condemnation against recent efforts to impeach a sitting judge of the Madras High Court. The controversy stems from the judge's ruling in the Thiruparankundram temple lamp dispute.
Governor's Stern Warning on Judicial Independence
Speaking at a conclave on 'Indian Republic at 75' held at SRM University in Chennai on Thursday, Governor Ravi expressed deep concern. He stated that in the 75-year history of independent India, he had never witnessed a demand for a judge's impeachment over a verdict in such a matter.
"The judiciary is being challenged not through constitutional means but by creating a sense of fear among the people," Ravi asserted. He accused certain forces of wanting to create anarchy in the country. Chanting the slogan "Vetrivel Muruganukku Arohara" (hail the victorious spear-wielding Lord Murugan), the Governor said these elements were working systematically to weaken public trust in vital institutions like the judiciary and the Election Commission of India.
Alleged Campaign to Undermine Democratic Institutions
Governor Ravi elaborated that despite India being a robust democracy for seven and a half decades, consistent attempts are being made to shake citizens' faith. He pointedly mentioned that this campaign of distrust extends beyond institutions to even symbols of national unity like the poem Vande Mataram.
Ravi drew parallels to historical resistance against authoritarianism. He reminded the audience of freedom fighter V O Chidambaram Pillai's stance against the partition of Bengal in the 1900s and how newspapers published blank editorials during the Emergency. "Any such attempt to undermine democracy will be thwarted," he vowed.
Highlighting National Progress and Tamil Nadu's Gains
Shifting focus to development, the Governor credited the BJP-led central government over the last 10 years for significant strides in diplomacy, military, economy, and skill development. He listed key achievements:
- India's successful G20 presidency.
- Operation Sindoor demonstrating a decisive response to terror.
- Reduction of absolute poverty from around 30% to under 5%.
- Global leadership in providing Covid-19 vaccines to many nations.
Specifically for Tamil Nadu, Ravi highlighted that the state has one of the largest beneficiary groups for Mudra loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY). This scheme offers collateral-free loans up to Rs 20 lakh to small enterprises. "I visited villages in the state and was often delighted to see women with no formal education supporting their families through the small businesses they run," he shared.
Concluding his address, Governor Ravi emphasized that for India to achieve peak development, its youth must realize their optimum potential. He positioned the protection of democratic institutions as fundamental to this national journey.
