Tamil Nadu university convocation song order sparks political protest

On July 28, Sundaranar University in Tirunelveli will hold its 33rd convocation. A circular issued by the Governor’s office, following a Raj Bhavan directive, instructed that the ceremony begin with “Vande Mataram”, followed by the Indian national anthem, with the Tamil state song “Tamil Thayi Vazhthu” placed third.

The ordering provoked strong criticism from Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president Manikam Tagore, who said it disparages the state’s language and culture. Tagore asked Home Minister Amit Shah to rescind the directive and issue a public apology, accusing the centre of undermining Tamil identity.

The Marxist Communist Party (MCPI) and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) also condemned the plan, demanding that the Tamil song be given priority and urging the state government to intervene. University vice‑chancellor N. Chandrasekhar reiterated that the order reflects the Raj Bhavan instruction, while the parties claim it violates constitutional rights and the heritage of the university’s namesake.