Tamil Nadu Assembly Unanimously Passes Resolution Giving 'Tamil Thai Vazhthu' Pride of Place at Official Events

Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on August 10 moved a special resolution in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly seeking to make it mandatory for "Tamil Thai Vazhthu," the state's invocation song, to be sung first at all government functions, ahead of any other song or anthem.

The Assembly unanimously adopted the resolution by voice vote, according priority to Tamil Thai Vazhthu across educational institutions, universities and government offices statewide.

Members across party lines backed the measure, including the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, PMK, VCK, CPI, BJP and Indian Union Muslim League.

Moving the resolution, Vijay said Tamil was integral to the identity, culture and emotions of the state's people, and that giving Tamil Thai Vazhthu precedence at official events was essential to safeguarding Tamil Nadu's cultural traditions and rights.

The resolution carries political significance amid a separate, ongoing controversy over the rendition of Vande Mataram at official functions attended by the Governor, which has triggered protests and political debate in the state in recent months.