CHENNAI: Taking a veiled dig at denying permission to lit the light at "Tirupparankundram Murugan Temple's Deepathoon" even after the High Court order gave permission,
Tamil Nadu governor RN Ravi on Thursday claimed it was a "blatant attempt" to undermine a constitutional institution which is the guardian of the constitution.
"Never before in the history of the last 75 years, the country has witnessed a scenario like this," he said at a function at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), commemorating 75 years of the Indian Republic with a Conclave on Indian Republic @ 75 and the inauguration of Vendhar Museum – Phase II, dedicated to the Constitution of India.
Claiming that when the High Court order was not in favour, there was an option to move the Supreme Court, he said, "go to the higher court, and there are constitutional avenues available".
Stating that perverse politics is played in the issue and the judge was intimidated, the governor said, "Not only that judge, but it is an intimidation to the entire institution of the judiciary."
He also claimed that there are people who are attempting to spread rumours and falsehoods to undermine people's confidence in institutions like the Election Commission of India and the judiciary.
Emphasising the civilisational roots of democratic values, he said, "Democracy has been in our DNA. It has been a way of life of our people in Bharat for several thousand years," adding that over the last 75 years, India's democratic institutions have grown more robust.
"Today we are the largest, robustly functioning, stable democracy in the world, which is an achievement that should make every citizen proud," he said.
He also observed that institutions like SRM Institute of Science and Technology play a vital role, stating that SRMIST "not only imparts academic knowledge, practical knowledge and skills, but also introduces students to our cultural and national values."
Dr TR Paarivendhar, Founder Chancellor, SRMIST, spoke on the importance of strong academic institutions in sustaining democracy and national progress. "Running a university with dignity, safety, and academic responsibility is a challenging task, and it requires autonomy, commitment, and mutual respect," he said.
He underscored that adequate funding and institutional autonomy are essential to maintain academic standards and research excellence. He noted that universities play a critical role not only in skill development but also in shaping informed, responsible citizens. "Universities must be empowered to pursue excellence without compromise. Sustained funding and academic autonomy are essential to safeguard the future of higher education," he said.