PM Modi Takes a Dig at Tamil Nadu CM Stalin Over Tamil Language Use: "Why Not Sign in Tamil?"
Speaking on the occasion of Ram Navami, the Prime Minister inaugurated the much-anticipated new Pamban railway bridge in Rameswaram — touted as Asia's first vertical lift sea bridge, stretching 2.8 kilometers to connect Rameswaram with Mandapam. He also performed rituals at the Ramnath Swamy Temple and laid foundation stones for rail and road development projects worth ₹8,300 crore.
Landmark Projects for Tamil Nadu
The newly inaugurated infrastructure projects include the Pamban Bridge, a new rail service, and enhanced road connectivity between Rameswaram and Chennai. These developments are expected to significantly boost travel, trade, and tourism in the southern coastal region of Tamil Nadu.
The Pamban Bridge, in particular, is a significant engineering feat, being India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, allowing ships to pass underneath when lifted — a major innovation in Indian railway infrastructure.
Modi Raises Language Issue Amid Political Tensions
During his address, PM Modi raised the issue of language pride, delivering a subtle criticism aimed at Chief Minister Stalin and other Tamil Nadu leaders. Referring to the ongoing national debate on linguistic identity, Modi said:
“I receive letters from many leaders in Tamil Nadu, but they are never signed in Tamil. If you are truly proud of the Tamil language, why not sign in Tamil?”
His remark was seen as a direct jab at the DMK-led government, which has long championed Tamil pride and opposed the imposition of Hindi or any other language in the state.
Promoting Tamil Heritage Globally
PM Modi further emphasized his government’s efforts to promote Tamil language and culture globally. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to preserving Tamil heritage and ensuring it is recognized across the world.
“The government is working in this direction — to take the Tamil language and its rich heritage to every corner of the globe,” Modi stated.
A Subtle Yet Strategic Message
While the infrastructure announcements dominated the day's agenda, the Prime Minister’s comment on language subtly tapped into Tamil Nadu’s strong linguistic identity, which has often shaped the state’s politics. His remarks are likely to stir political reactions in Tamil Nadu, especially as the state continues to push back against perceived attempts at centralization of language and culture.