The decision comes in the wake of the Madras High Court recently ruling that 'Tamil Thai Vaazhthu' is only a prayer song and not a National Anthem and hence, there was no need for everyone to remain in standing posture when it is rendered.

Chief Minister M K Stalin said a Government Order to this effect has been issued, mandating that all barring the differently-abled persons should remain standing when the 55-second long song is sung.

It should be sung before the start of any functions in all educational institutions, universities, government offices, public sector undertakings, and other public fora in the state, he said in a statement quoting the GO.

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