India today stands at the cusp of unprecedented economic and geopolitical prominence under the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In my view, the nation is accelerating toward becoming a global powerhouse. Yet, certain non-BJP-ruled southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, seem determined to derail this momentum. Why? Their actions, often cloaked in regional identity politics, amount to a systematic roadblock to India’s overall growth trajectory.
One of the most glaring examples of this obstruction is Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s vehement opposition to the three-language formula, which includes Hindi. Despite Hindi being the second most spoken language in the world, Stalin continues to push an anti-Hindi narrative, depriving Tamil Nadu’s youth of the opportunities that come with multilingual proficiency. Ironically, the very state that protests against Hindi is thriving in regions like Delhi and Mumbai, where Tamil-origin entrepreneurs and professionals seamlessly communicate in Hindi for business and career growth.
This resistance is deeply rooted in the Dravidian movement’s outdated ideology, which portrays Hindi as a tool of North Indian dominance. But is this anti-Hindi stance truly about Tamil pride, or is it a calculated move to keep the population disconnected from mainstream national opportunities—especially with the upcoming state assembly polls, as the DMK government under MK Stalin faces a severe anti-incumbency wave?
The latest controversy over Tamil Nadu’s state budget featuring an altered rupee symbol is another example of misplaced priorities. The rupee symbol was designed by a Tamilian, Udaya Kumar, and was lauded by none other than former DMK chief minister M. Karunanidhi. Yet, Stalin’s administration chose to tweak the symbol, a move that appears to be a deliberate act of defiance against the national identity. Such actions, rather than fostering regional pride, only serve to create unnecessary divisions in a country that thrives on unity in diversity.
A common narrative peddled by Tamil Nadu and other non-BJP southern states is the claim that the Modi government is withholding their rightful share of funds. This assertion, however, does not hold up against facts. The Finance Commission’s formula for fund allocation is transparent and based on well-defined parameters, including population, fiscal discipline, and development needs. Yet, Stalin and Pinaray governments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala continue to cry foul, not acknowledging the significant central assistance received, including infrastructure investments and relief packages.
Rather than focusing on economic development and good governance, Tamil Nadu’s leadership seems more invested in playing the victim card for political gain. If Tamil Nadu’s economic growth is stagnating, the blame lies with its government’s reluctance to align with national policies rather than any supposed discrimination by the Centre.
The anti-Hindi, anti-North rhetoric peddled by the Dravidian movement stems from an old, divisive ideology that sought to separate South India from the rest of the country. At its core, the movement labelled North Indians as ‘Aryans’ and the South as ‘Dravidians,’ painting a false narrative of racial and cultural conflict. However, modern India has moved past such divisive theories, embracing a shared heritage and national identity. Yet, parties like the DMK cling to this narrative, fostering an unnecessary divide between Tamil Nadu and the rest of the country.
While healthy political debate, in my view, is essential in a democracy, Tamil Nadu’s repeated acts of defiance against national policies raise serious concerns. Whether it is opposing Hindi, distorting national symbols, or making baseless allegations against the Centre, these actions are nothing short of a disservice to India’s progress. At a time when world leaders are looking toward India for leadership in global stability, such regional obstructionism weakens our collective strength.
The Modi government must take a firm stance against such anti-national tendencies. A nationwide awareness campaign should be launched to expose the truth behind these regional politics and educate voters about the importance of national unity. Tamil Nadu’s electorate must realize that aligning with the larger national vision will propel them—and India—to even greater heights economically and militarily.
India’s strength lies in unity, not division. Those who seek to disrupt this must be held accountable—not just by the government but by the people they claim to represent. In Tamil Nadu, the DMK seems to be losing relevance, especially with the rise of young actor-turned-politician Vijayan. His party’s surge, along with the growing influence of BJP’s Annamalai—an assertive former IPS officer—could challenge the Dravidian parties’ dominance and reshape the state’s political landscape. Next year’s assembly elections are poised to be a turning point.
Beyond Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Telangana may also reject divisive politics, potentially shifting away from Congress and the last Communist bastion in Kerala. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh, under the dynamic leadership of Nara Chandrababu Naidu, stands out with groundbreaking initiatives, setting a benchmark while the rest of the South lags.
