Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday supported the aspirations of the Tamil people of Sri Lanka by advocating for Tamil culture and justice for the people while preparing the ground for a positive campaign given the possible assembly elections in Tamil Nadu in April. Indicating the fight against the backdrop of the expelled leader of TDP Dhinakaran and his aunt VK Sasikala, the expelled AIADMK, Modi hinted at joining hands with Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam on the stage. The trio immediately joined hands amid a roar of smiling, applause.
The political significance of this program, organized to lay the foundation for completed infrastructure projects and new projects, was not hidden from anyone. “It is an honor for us to work towards saving and promoting the culture of Tamil Nadu,” Modi said, quoting other Tamil words including ‘Tirukkul’, ancient poetry written in the Tamil language.
It is noteworthy that in his recent visit to Tamil Nadu, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused BJP and Modi of not paying any respect to Tamil culture. The AIADMK and BJP have already announced to contest the assembly elections together. On the other hand, the camp of Sasikala and Dinakaran are claiming the party and trying to stand again. Quoting the utterances of the ancient Tamil poet Avvair, Modi said that it is also an inspiration for the goals of ‘Self-reliant India’. He said that these popular lines underline that water is a basic element that will pave the way for the prosperity of the nation.
Emphasizing water conservation, the Prime Minister urged the people to work towards achieving this goal as it is not only a national issue but also has global implications. He said, “Always remember this mantra that every single drop results in more crop, it will benefit future generations.” 636 km long ‘Grand Anicut Canal System’ in Cauvery river valley area of Tamil Nadu. Laying the foundation stone for modernization, he said that Enicut “is a living proof of our past famous times”.
Also Read: Uttarakhand Glacier Burst: Government Has Released 20 Crores For Relief And Rescue Operations
The Prime Minister said, “I applaud the farmers of Tamil Nadu for the record food production and water resources utilization.” Describing Tamil as the world’s oldest language, he spoke the famous lines of the nationalist poet Mahakavi Subramanya Bharathi from domestic production.
Referring to the Sri Lankan Tamil community, Modi said that his government has always taken care of the welfare of this community. He said, “It is my privilege that I am the only Prime Minister of India to be in Jaffna.” Referring to the many developments and welfare initiatives of the Center for the Tamil-speaking people of Sri Lanka, Modi said that India has presented the Tamils to Sri Lanka. The issue of rights has also been raised.
