Tamil Nadu governor’s address emphasises on state autonomy and federalism

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, on Monday, outlined the policy initiatives of the DMK government on priority issues, in his customary address at the first session of the 16th state assembly.

While a significant portion of the address reiterated the DMK’s avowed ideologies of state autonomy, social justice and reservation, the governor’s address, for the first time in the state assembly, referred to the
central government as “ondriya arasu” or the Union government, the term being used by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to refer the central government as “union of states.” “Strong states are needed to create a strong Union. This government will staunchly stand in defence of the rights of the states and constitutionally oppose any infringement of such rights. At the same time, we will maintain a cordial relationship with the Union government as partners in the process of nation building, in line with our policy of extending our hand in friendship, even as we speak up for our rights,” he said.

Reiterating that the government is guided by the ethos of the Dravidian movement, the governor said social justice, gender equality, economic equity, opportunity for all through reservations and progress through education and social reforms will drive every legislation and every scheme of the new government. The government is “determined to transform Tamil Nadu into a state with self-respect, with an empowered citizenry enjoying their rights, and which is prosperous in all respects, as envisioned by Thanthai Periyar,” he added.

While touching upon the need for continuing with 69 per cent reservation and exemption from NEET, the governor also said this government would ensure that native Tamils, especially those that have studied in Tamil-medium and government schools, would be given priority in recruitment for government posts.

Stating that an expert council will be constituted to advise Chief minister M.K. Stalin on revitalising the state’s economy, he said the government will submit a white paper on the state’s finances in July. Making it clear that the government will not stand corruption in any form, Purohit said, “The Lok Ayukta will be revitalised and empowered to deal with complaints against public authorities, including elected representatives and government officials.”

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti Corruption (DVAC) will be energised and pending complaints dealt with expeditiously, he said. In fact, this was one of the poll promises of the DMK. The party had said corruption will not be allowed at any level of governance and those who erred in the earlier regime will be dealt with legally.

Purohit further said the government is determined to ensure transparency and accountability in temple management, and added that the assets, lands and properties of temples will be protected.

"A state-level advisory committee for all major Hindu temples will be constituted to enhance facilities for devotees, improve the maintenance of temples and to advise on related issues,” he said.