Singing Tamil Thai Vazhthu third is not an insult, says Vice-President

Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan addressed the convocation at the Central University of Tamil Nadu, arguing that singing the Tamil Thai Vazhthu after national anthems is not an insult. He criticized the politicization of cultural symbols and urged students to prioritize national unity while also calling for stricter action against the drug trade.
Why it matters
The statement highlights ongoing tensions regarding regional identity versus national integration in Indian politics, particularly within the state of Tamil Nadu.
Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Monday said singing Tamil Thai Vazhthu after Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana cannot be construed as an insult to the State song.
Addressing the graduands at the 11 th Convocation of Central University of Tamil Nadu at Neelakudi near Tiruvarur, he called upon them to keep the nation first in their every action. “But, unfortunately, everything is being politicised in Tamil Nadu. They ask why Tamil Thai Vazhthu is not sung first. They say it is an insult. Can you insult the national song?” he asked.
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