Chennai, Aug 15 (IANS) DMK MP Kanimozhi on Saturday recalled the struggle led by her father and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M. Karunanidhi, to secure the right of State Chief Ministers to hoist the National Flag on Independence Day.
Extending greetings to the people on India’s 80th Independence Day, Kanimozhi said Karunanidhi, popularly known as Kalaignar, had fought for the right as part of his commitment to strengthening federalism and protecting the dignity of elected State governments.
In a post on the social media platform X, Kanimozhi said India had attained freedom from British colonial rule after countless sacrifices and prolonged struggles.
The freedom achieved through those movements belonged equally to every citizen, she said.
Kanimozhi noted that the right to hoist the National Flag at Independence Day functions in State capitals was earlier reserved for Governors.
Karunanidhi’s campaign helped establish the right of elected Chief Ministers to unfurl the Tricolour in their respective States. She said his struggle conveyed that freedom belonged to all sections of society and reinforced the federal principles adopted by the country.
“Let us honour the sacrifices of those who fought for the liberation of our motherland. Let us uphold the values of federalism that will make that freedom complete,” Kanimozhi said in her message.
India celebrated its 80th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and colourful programmes across the country.
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 celebrations at Fort St. George in Chennai. It was his first Independence Day ceremony after the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government assumed office in the State.
CM Vijay arrived at the Secretariat amid elaborate security arrangements and received the ceremonial guard of honour. After inspecting the police parade from an open vehicle, he proceeded to the ramparts of Fort St. George and unfurled the National Flag as the National Anthem was played.
Ministers, senior government officials, police officers, elected representatives and other dignitaries attended the ceremony. In his Independence Day address, CM Vijay paid tribute to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country.
He reiterated his government’s commitment to defending Tamil Nadu’s interests and State rights while ensuring transparent, honest and corruption-free governance.
The Chief Minister also emphasised social justice, equality and the need to remove barriers based on caste, religion, language and race.
—IANS
aal/rad