Tensions escalated in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (TNLA) as Governor R.N. Ravi condemned Speaker M. Appavu for derogatory remarks, accusing him of tarnishing the dignity of his position and the integrity of the House.

In a statement released by Raj Bhavan on Monday, Governor Ravi expressed dismay over Speaker Appavu’s conduct, particularly his disparaging reference to Nathuram Godse during the Governor’s address. According to the statement, instead of adhering to the scheduled protocol, Speaker Appavu launched a scathing attack against the Governor, labeling him a follower of Godse, among other insults. Raj Bhavan condemned this behavior, asserting that it undermined the decorum expected of the Speaker’s office and tarnished the sanctity of the legislative chamber.

As the Speaker continued his diatribe against the Governor, the latter, mindful of the dignity of his office and the sanctity of the House, chose to exit the proceedings, the statement noted.

Furthermore, Raj Bhavan clarified the circumstances leading to the Governor’s walkout, revealing that the Governor had raised concerns regarding the content of the Draft Governor’s address received from the government on February 9, 2024. The address contained several passages with misleading information, diverging from the truth. In response, the Governor offered two pieces of advice:

To uphold the protocol of playing the National Anthem at the beginning and end of the Governor’s address, as a sign of respect.
To ensure that the Governor’s address primarily focuses on the government’s achievements, policies, and programs, refraining from promoting misleading statements or partisan political views.
These recommendations, aimed at maintaining the integrity and transparency of the legislative process, underscored the Governor’s commitment to upholding democratic values and parliamentary decorum.