Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi Stirs Controversy at Madurai College .

Madurai, Tamil Nadu | April 14, 2025

Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi triggered strong backlash after urging students to chant “Jai Shri Ram” during a college prize distribution event in Madurai. The video, now viral, shows students reluctantly echoing the chant after repeated prompts from the Governor. Many now question whether such acts cross constitutional boundaries in secular educational institutions.

Experts Criticize Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi’s Role in Academic Spaces

Constitutional experts and educationists reacted sharply. The State Platform for Common School System–Tamil Nadu (SPCSS-TN) filed a formal complaint to President Droupadi Murmu. They argue the Governor violated Article 159, which requires governors to uphold constitutional values. Critics believe his remarks blur the lines between governance and religious influence.

Political Leaders Condemn Governor RN Ravi’s Actions

Political leaders across the spectrum criticized the incident. DMK and Congress leaders accused the Governor of promoting religious slogans in a secular setting. According to Congress leader Sasikanth Senthil, the Governor’s comments represent an attempt to bring majoritarian sentiments into academic spaces, which is constitutionally unacceptable.

Tensions Grow Between State Government and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi

The controversy further strains relations between the Governor and the Tamil Nadu government. Just days before, the Supreme Court criticized RN Ravi for delaying assent to several bills passed by the Assembly. Combined with this latest issue, observers fear continued disruptions in state governance.

Reinforcing Secularism in India’s Schools and Colleges

Civil society groups and educators now call for stronger safeguards to protect secularism in public institutions. They argue that students deserve an environment free from political or religious imposition. More importantly, they urge all constitutional authorities to respect their role and remain neutral in diverse educational spaces.

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