National Anthem Controversy in Tamil Nadu

Source: This post on National Anthem Controversy in Tamil Nadu has been created based on article Decoding the National Anthem controversy published in The Hindu on 7^th January 2025.

UPSC Syllabus topic: GS -2- Polity 

Context: The article discusses a controversy surrounding the Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi’s decision to leave the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly without delivering his customary address. The Governor’s departure was in protest against the absence of the National Anthem being played before his scheduled address, a practice he deemed essential. National Anthem Controversy in Tamil Nadu

What is the usual practice in the Tamil Nadu Assembly regarding the National Anthem? What is the practice in other States?

1. State Anthem First: The session begins with the playing of the State anthem, Tamil Thai Vaazhthu.
2. National Anthem Last: The National Anthem is played after the Governor’s address.
3. This practice has been followed since July 1991, introduced during the AIADMK government led by Jayalalithaa. Before this, Governors would deliver their address without any anthems.
4. Practices vary widely:
   1. Nagaland: The National Anthem was not played in the Assembly for decades and was introduced only in February 2021 during R.N. Ravi’s tenure as Governor.
   2. Tripura: The National Anthem was played for the first time in the Assembly in March 2018.
   3. Other States: Some Assemblies do not follow a strict protocol for playing the National Anthem.

What happens during the President’s address in Parliament?

1. Before the Address: The National Anthem is played when the President reaches the dais.
2. During the Address: The President reads the printed address, followed by another version if necessary, read by the Rajya Sabha Chairman.
3. After the Address: The National Anthem is played again before the President leaves the hall.

What does the Constitution of India say about respecting the National Anthem?

Article 51(A)(a), under fundamental duties, mandates every citizen to abide by the Constitution and respect the National Anthem, National Flag, and other national symbols.

What does the Ministry of Home Affairs’ order specify about playing the National Anthem?

The National Anthem must be played in full on the following occasions:

1. During civil and military investitures.
2. When a national salute is given to the President or Governor.
3. During parades, hoisting of the National Flag, or regimental colour presentations.
4. Upon the President’s arrival or departure from formal State functions.
5. Before and after the President’s address to the nation over All India Radio.

When is mass singing of the National Anthem required?

Mass singing is required on occasions such as:

1. The unfurling of the National Flag.
2. Cultural or ceremonial functions (other than parades).
3. Arrival and departure of the President at government or public functions.

Is playing the National Anthem mandatory at official functions?

1. No, it is not mandatory. For instance, during a 2019 function in Madurai attended by the Prime Minister, Tamil Nadu Governor, and Chief Minister, the National Anthem was not played.
2. A petition seeking punishment for not playing the anthem was dismissed by the Madras High Court. The court noted that the National Anthem’s use is customary and not mandated by law.