Karunanidhi’s advocacy for federalism was rooted in understanding India’s unity in diversity: Rajnath Singh

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], August 18 (ANI): Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said that Karunanidhi’s advocacy for federalism was rooted in his understanding of India’s unity in diversity.

Singh further stated that Karunanidhi had recognised the strength of Indian Democracy and his demands on the rights of the state was a call for a more balanced and equitable distribution of power within the union.

Taking it to a social media post on X, the RMO India wrote, “Kalaignar Karunanidhi’s advocacy for federalism was rooted in his understanding of India’s unity in diversity which I just described. He recognized that the strength of Indian democracy lies in its ability to accommodate different voices, cultures, and identities. His insistence on state rights was a call for a more balanced and equitable distribution of power within the Union.”

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today released a commemorative coin to mark the birth centenary of former five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Kalaignar M Karunanidhi in Chennai.

He termed M Karunanidhi as one of the most revered leaders of the country, a titan of Indian politics, an able administrator, an advocate for social justice, and a cultural stalwart.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Union MoS L Murugan along with other leaders and officials were also present at the event.

Addressing the event with Vadakkam, Rajnath Singh said, “It is a great honour and deep respect to celebrate the birth centenary of one of the most revered leaders of our country, Kalaignar M Karunanidhi. I pay my homage to the Kalaingar on his special occasion, a man whose influence was far extended than the borders of Tamil Nadu and Karunanidhi was a titan of Indian politics. A cultural stalwart and relentless advocate of the social justice.”

He said, “As we gather here to celebrate his life and legacy, it is just imperative to recognise that his contributions to public hood were not just limited to Tamil Nadu but also benefitted the entire nation. His visions and actions encapsulated what it meant to be Indian, a fusion of diverse identities and unwavering dedication to democracy and progress. His political story is journey is a story of resilience, determination and deep-rooted connection with people. His tenure as a five times Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu is marked by his remarkable abilities to address the people’s needs.”