(Image source from: Ndtv.com)
The new administration in Tamil Nadu, headed by Vijay, and the opposing DMK clashed soon after the swearing-in ceremony today regarding the music played during the event. The national song 'Jana Gana Mana' and the Tamil state song 'Thamizhthai Vaazhthu' followed the playing of 'Vande Mataram,' leading the DMK to argue that the Tamil anthem should have been played first to honor the state. The Tamil anthem was moved to the third position. Even Vijay's partners requested clarification, stating that such an oversight should not have occurred. The ruling party, TVK (Tamilaga Vettru Kazhagam), explained that the music selection was up to the Governor because the event was held at the Raj Bhavan. However, the DMK, which has been advocating for the Tamil language against Hindi during the election period, did not back down, asserting that this indicates the TVK's alignment with the BJP.
The TVK came into power promoting secular values, which Vijay highlighted in his speech today. The TVK announced that, in the future, the Tamil anthem will be played before the national anthem at all events. Aadhav Arjuna mentioned that the Lok Bhavan referred to the central government's circular, which resulted in the Tamil anthem being played third. He stated that the TVK disagrees with this and requests the central government to ensure the state anthem is performed first in all states. The order of songs at the event followed a guideline from the Union Home Ministry in January, stating that on the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram', all six stanzas of the song by Bengali poet Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay must be sung first when both the national song and anthem are played together.
DMK's TKS Elangovan stated, "Traditionally, we play the Tamil anthem first and the national anthem last. " He added, "This time, the Governor intends for 'Vande Mataram' to go first, followed by the Tamil anthem. . . This is not how it’s usually done. It indicates Vijay is leaning towards the BJP. We will bring this matter to the public's attention. " Partner parties CPM, CPI, and VCK, along with MDMK, have also urged the TVK to adhere to the long-standing practice of playing the Tamil anthem first. CPI Secretary M Veerapandiyan voiced his worries, saying this "disregards long-standing tradition," and the Tamil Nadu government "must clarify who is accountable for this error" to the public. PMK founder Dr S Ramadoss, in his statement, also urged the state government to give appropriate recognition to 'Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu' at all official events and gatherings.
VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan also criticized the event. Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), participating in its first Assembly election, became the largest party by securing 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly. However, even with this significant support, the TVK had to go through several days of discussions to cover the 10-seat gap needed for a majority. Now that the government is established, it will face several challenges, including its commitment to good governance and various welfare programs, such as Rs 2,500 monthly support for women, free gas cylinders, more health insurance, efforts against corruption, and measures for women's safety.
