Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin launched a scathing attack on Governor RN Ravi, accusing him of indulging in “cheap politics” and aligning with the BJP-led Union Government to malign the Dravidian Model and the DMK government.
Stalin’s remarks came in response to Governor Ravi’s Independence Day speech, where the Governor alleged that Tamil Nadu is witnessing social and educational discrimination against the marginalised, a rise in suicides, increasing drug abuse among youth, and a steep surge in crimes against women and girls.
Responding sharply, Stalin said, “Certain poisonous elements are unable to see the Dravidian Model becoming a compass for India and are spreading slander. But one person is doing much cheaper politics than them – Governor Ravi, appointed by the Union BJP Government.”
He accused the Governor of acting beyond his constitutional role. “From Raj Bhavan, he spreads lies against the DMK government, mocks Dravidam, refuses to assent to Bills, publishes fake Thirukkural couplets, insults the Tamil anthem, demeans Tamil Nadu’s students, and creates panic about law and order, education, and women’s safety,” Stalin alleged.
Defending the state’s performance, the Chief Minister cited official data from the Union Government, claiming Tamil Nadu outperforms BJP-ruled states on key development indicators. “Tamil Nadu is ranked second in school education in India. The state has remained peaceful over the past four years and attracted Rs 10 lakh crore in investments. Yet, the Governor falsely claims women are unsafe here,” he said.
Stalin further accused Governor Ravi and the BJP of opposing Tamil identity and values. “They cannot tolerate our language, race, and ideology. But ironically, their attacks are only keeping our spirit alive,” he added.
“ELECTION COMMISSION IS NOW A TOY IN BJP’S HANDS”
At a separate event in Salem, Stalin escalated his attack on the BJP, alleging that the Election Commission has become a “doll with a key,” manipulated by the ruling party at the Centre.
Speaking at a meeting organised by the Communist Party of India (CPI), Stalin reaffirmed the DMK’s alliance with Left parties and condemned attempts to divide the coalition. “Those who fear social justice and socialism are trying to break our alliance. But they will not succeed,” he asserted.
He also hit out at AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami, questioning his political legacy and accusing him of enabling BJP’s agenda. “Can Palaniswami talk about sacrifice? Has he sacrificed more than leaders like Thirumavalavan?” Stalin asked.
Stalin alleged a broader conspiracy to manipulate electoral outcomes in Tamil Nadu. “The BJP is misusing the Election Commission. They are not just influencing nominations but are interfering with the voters’ list itself. I thank Rahul Gandhi for exposing this. Instead of addressing his allegations, the EC is asking him for explanations,” he said.
He warned of the consequences of a BJP government, pointing to the promotion of Hindi, the Gurukul education model, and glorification of RSS. “This year, the Prime Minister mentioned RSS in his Independence Day speech. Government ads feature Savarkar’s image above Gandhi’s. Our fears have come true,” Stalin said.
Referring to recent enforcement actions, he added, “They use ED to threaten opposition parties. Minister I Periyasamy’s house was raided. But we are not like Palaniswami, who joins hands with BJP after a raid.”
Concluding his speech with a call to action, Stalin urged CPI cadres to work towards victory in the upcoming elections and ended with a “Red Salute”.
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