High Drama In Tamil Nadu Assembly, Governor Walks Out Of Assembly

Tensions flared in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Tuesday morning after familiar foes Governor RN Ravi and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam clashed on Day 1 of the first session.

The Governor walked out in a huff, declaring the national anthem had been "insulted" and skipping his customary address to the House, after the state anthem was played at the start of the session, mirroring scenes that have played out in each of the past two opening sessions.

Shortly after he walked out, the Governor's office released a statement accusing the state of having "repeatedly switched off" his microphone and presenting a speech - prepared, as is customary, by the state government - that contained "numerous unsubstantiated claims and misleading statements". "Crucial issues troubling the people were ignored," Ravi's office declared, pointing to a statement about Rs 12 lakh crore in investment and women's safety.