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The recent controversy surrounding the rendition of the Tamil Thai Vaazhthu by singers engaged by Prasar Bharati has sparked a heated debate in Tamil Nadu, involving prominent figures like the Governor, the Chief Minister, and former Chief Ministers. Amidst this war of words, O. Panneerselvam, the former Chief Minister, has emerged as a voice calling for an end to the controversy. Panneerselvam's statement, released two days after the public dispute between Governor R.N. Ravi and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, reflects a desire to de-escalate the situation and prevent further political polarization.
Panneerselvam's stance hinges on the fact that the Doordarshan management has acknowledged its error in the rendition of the Tamil Thai Vaazhthu, a pivotal anthem in Tamil Nadu. He argues that criticizing the Governor after this admission could fuel suspicion of political motives. This statement highlights the delicate balance between holding public officials accountable and avoiding unnecessary escalation of conflicts. By seeking an end to the controversy, Panneerselvam aims to protect the reputation of the Governor while also emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and correcting mistakes.
Despite his call for an end to the controversy, Panneerselvam acknowledges the gravity of the error made by Doordarshan. He states that omitting the stanza with the word 'Dravida' from the Tamil Thai Vaazhthu was a “huge mistake”, a significant admission considering the cultural and political significance of the anthem. However, he emphasizes that the mistake lies with Doordarshan and not the Governor. His stance underscores the need to hold those directly responsible accountable while also avoiding the attribution of blame based on assumptions and speculation.
Panneerselvam's call for an end to the controversy, while acknowledging the seriousness of the error, reflects a desire to prevent the situation from spiraling further. This highlights the importance of finding a balance between addressing public grievances and avoiding undue polarization, particularly in politically charged environments. As the controversy continues to simmer, Panneerselvam's statement presents a perspective on the need for reconciliation and the avoidance of further escalation.
Source: Put an end to row over Tamil Thai Vaazhthu: Panneerselvam