Chennai, August 15: DMK MP Kanimozhi paid tribute on Saturday to her father, former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, recalling his struggle that granted state chief ministers the right to hoist the national flag on Independence Day.
Wishing citizens on India’s 80th Independence Day, Kanimozhi noted that Karunanidhi, affectionately known as ‘Kalaignar,’ fought to strengthen federalism and uphold the dignity of elected state governments.
In a post on the social media platform X, she stated that after countless sacrifices and a long struggle, India gained freedom from British colonial rule. She emphasized that the freedom achieved through various movements belongs to every citizen of the country.
Kanimozhi explained that initially, the right to hoist the national flag during Independence Day celebrations in state capitals was limited to governors. Following Karunanidhi’s campaign, elected chief ministers were granted the authority to raise the tricolor in their respective states.
She asserted that Karunanidhi’s struggle reinforces the idea that freedom belongs to all sections of society and strengthens the country’s federal principles.
In her message, Kanimozhi urged everyone to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for the motherland’s freedom. She called for the preservation of the values of federalism that will complete this freedom.
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated nationwide with patriotic fervor and colorful events. In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the historic Red Fort and addressed the nation.
In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay led the Independence Day celebrations at Fort St. George in Chennai. This marked his first Independence Day ceremony since the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam government took office in the state.
Amid tight security, Chief Minister Vijay arrived at the Secretariat, where he received a guard of honor. He inspected the police parade in an open vehicle before reaching the ramparts of Fort St. George to raise the national flag while the national anthem was played.
The ceremony was attended by ministers, senior government officials, police officers, elected representatives, and other dignitaries. In his Independence Day address, Chief Minister Vijay paid tribute to the freedom fighters who sacrificed for the nation.
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring transparent, honest, and corruption-free governance while protecting the interests and rights of Tamil Nadu.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the importance of social justice and equality, highlighting the need to eliminate barriers based on caste, religion, language, and race.
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