In a significant development, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has lodged a complaint with President Droupadi Murmu against Governor R.N. Ravi, alleging bias and unfitness for the constitutional post. The Chief Minister’s grievances include unnecessary delays in granting assent to bills adopted by the State Legislative Assembly, hindrance in sanctioning prosecution for accused persons, and interference in police investigations.
Stalin has also accused Ravi of assuming political and ideological positions against the elected state government and supporting accused persons. The Chief Minister’s letter, dated July 8, was written amidst a “purposeful” meeting between Governor Ravi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi.
Stalin has further alleged that Ravi’s actions have incited communal hatred and pose a threat to peace in the state. He has accused Ravi of being involved in an ideological and political conflict with the democratically elected DMK government since assuming office in September 2021.
In his letter, Stalin has highlighted several instances of Ravi’s alleged transgressions, including delays in granting assent to bills passed by the Assembly, which have caused distress and hindered the government’s functioning. He has also accused Ravi of delaying permission to proceed with corruption cases against ministers in the former AIADMK government.
Stalin said in the Letter,
“The Governor forgets that he didn’t contest any election to decide what is good for the people of Tamil Nadu. He should remember that he is merely an appointee. On January 5, the Governor while participating in Kashi Tamil Sangamam festival made unfounded claims against Dravidian philosophy and politics of the state,”
Stalin has further criticized Ravi for acting as an “elected opponent rather than a neutral representative“, stating that the governor’s public expression of political and religious views is highly inappropriate for someone in his position. He has also expressed concern about Ravi’s lack of faith in the government’s commitment to religious harmony and gender equality policies.
The Chief Minister has also accused Ravi of making unnecessary statements that belittle Tamil literature, Dravidian heritage, and Tamil pride. He has alleged that Ravi’s actions have undermined the idea of federalism in Tamil Nadu and have been degrading to Tamil people, culture, literature, Dravidian philosophy, and politics.
Further Stalin Stated in the letter,
“The problem is only in the eyes of the people who call Dravidian politics regressive. This exposes the politics of the person who holds a Constitution post…the Governor’s speech is aimed at not allowing the elected government to do its work. It is also aimed at defaming the government,”
In his letter, Stalin has left the decision of retaining the Governor to the discretionary powers of the President. He has stated that Ravi’s actions show his extraordinary animosity towards Tamil Nadu and have defamed the name of the state.
The escalating conflict between the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and the Governor has now reached the President’s desk, with the future course of action yet to be determined. The Raj Bhavan has not yet responded to the issue.