CHENNAI

DMK MP Kanimozhi marked India’s 80th Independence Day by remembering her father and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi.

She recalled his historic struggle to secure the right of elected state chief ministers to hoist the national flag, emphasizing his lifelong dedication to strengthening federalism and protecting state dignity.

Sharing a special message on social media, Kanimozhi noted that India won freedom after countless sacrifices. She explained that in earlier years, governors held the sole right to unfurl the tricolor in state capitals during national celebrations. Through sustained campaigning, Karunanidhi successfully established that elected chief ministers should hoist the flag, reinforcing democratic values and state autonomy.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu celebrated the historic anniversary with grand events across the region. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay led the state-level celebrations at Fort St. George in Chennai. Arriving amid tight security, he received a ceremonial guard of honor before hoisting the national flag from the ramparts as the national anthem played.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Vijay paid heartfelt tributes to the brave freedom fighters who gave their lives for the nation. He strongly reiterated his government’s commitment to defending Tamil Nadu’s rights and interests while delivering honest, transparent, and corruption-free governance. He also stressed the importance of social justice, equality, and removing barriers based on caste, religion, language, or race.

Across the state, citizens and leaders united in a shared spirit of patriotism, honoring the sacrifices of past heroes and reaffirming their pledge to build a progressive, inclusive, and self-reliant nation for future generations.

Details of the struggle

Historical context: State governors traditionally unfurled the Tricolour at official Independence Day state functions.

Karunanidhi’s campaign: M Karunanidhi (Kalaignar) led a firm political and democrtic campaign to change this protocol.

Core achievement: The effort successfully established and secured the sovereign right of democratically elected Chief Ministers to hoist the national flag in their respective states.