CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu marked the nation’s 77th Republic Day on Monday, with Governor RN Ravi unfurling the national flag at the official celebrations held on Kamaraj Salai in Chennai.
Ad 1
The event was attended by Chief Minister MK Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, members of the State Cabinet, legislators, and senior officials.
The celebrations commemorated the adoption of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950, as part of Republic Day observances held across the country.
Security was tightened across Tamil Nadu in view of the celebrations. Locations such as railway stations, airports, and other sensitive areas were placed under increased surveillance. Chennai International Airport was placed under a seven-tier security cover, while city police stepped up patrols at major junctions and arterial roads.
The main Republic Day function in Chennai was held near the Workers’ Statue on Kamaraj Salai. Chief Minister Stalin arrived at the venue under police escort, with patrol vehicles positioned in front of and behind his convoy. Governor Ravi later arrived at the venue with his wife, Lakshmi Ravi, escorted by a motorbike contingent of the Indian Air Force.
At 8 am, the Governor unfurled the national flag. As the Tricolour was hoisted, flower petals were showered from a military helicopter flying overhead, followed by the singing of the national anthem. This was the fifth occasion on which Governor Ravi has unfurled the national flag on Republic Day in Tamil Nadu.
Marching contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Joint Services Band took part in the parade and saluted the Governor. The celebrations were attended by the Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, Ministers, Members of Parliament, MLAs, judges of the Madras High Court, foreign diplomats, senior civil and police officials, and members of the public.
(With IANS inputs)