Tamil Nadu Governor Walks Out of Assembly Amid Speech Controversy

Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Tuesday walked out of an assembly session after declining to deliver an address prepared by the MK Stalin-led DMK government as he alleged it was filled with "inaccuracies" and "unsubstantiated claims". A video showed him present during the National Anthem, and leaving immediately after. In a 13-point explanation of the incident, Lok Bhavan also claimed that the Governor's mic was constantly switched off and he was not allowed to speak. "The speech contains numerous unsubstantiated claims and misleading statements. Several crucial issues troubling the people are ignored," the statement added. It said that the DMK government's claim that Tamil Nadu attracted massive investments to the tune of more than Rs 12 crore is "far from the truth" and that several of the agreements with potential investors remain only on paper. "Actual investment is hardly a fraction of it. Investment data show that Tamil Nadu is becoming less attractive for investors. Until four years ago, Tamil Nadu, among the states, was the fourth-largest recipient of foreign direct investment. Today it is struggling to remain at the sixth," the Lok Sabha detailed in its response. It further said that the matter of women's safety has been entirely ignored despite there being a striking rise in cases – over 55 per cent Pocso rapes and over 33 per cent molestation of women. "Atrocities against Dalits and sexual violence against Dalit women is sharply increasing. However, it is totally bypassed," the Lok Bhavan statement said. The Governor claimed that the National Anthem had been insulted yet again, and the fundamental constitutional duty disregarded. "There is a steady decline in standards of education and widespread mismanagement in educational institutions adversely affecting the future of our youth. More than 50 per cent of faculty positions are vacant for years and guest faculty are restive all over. Our youth is staring at an uncertain future. It does not seem to bother the government and the issue is totally bypassed," the statement read. "There is widespread discontentment among lower-rung employees in almost all sectors. They are restive and frustrated. No mention of ways to address their genuine grievances," it added. MK Stalin responded sharply to the walkout, saying such behaviour by a Governor is unacceptable. He also said that the Constitution does not allow a Governor to tweak a speech approved and given to him by the government. "It is very concerning and disheartening to see (this). The Governor should have concern over state welfare and speak the truth. He should support the actions of the government. But our Governor is acting against it," the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister said. - Ends Tune In