Tamil Nadu govt's appointment of special representative to Delhi sparks sharp criticism

The Tamil Nadu government's decision to appoint Venkata Narayana K as its special representative in New Delhi for a year has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties. The appointment, detailed in an official release by chief secretary M Sai Kumar, creates a temporary post for Narayana, whose terms and conditions will be specified separately.

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The question that arises is whether he will stand, represent and voice for Mekedatu dam issue in favour of Tamil Nadu.

Narayana, known as the producer of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and chief minister C Joseph Vijay's film "Jananayakan," has faced scrutiny. He previously gained attention for accompanying Vijay and senior party leaders to a meeting with the Governor, where TVK claimed the right to form the government. The film's production faced delays and subsequent leaks.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have questioned the choice, particularly highlighting Narayana's origin from Karnataka. DMK deputy general secretary 'Tiruchi' Siva expressed surprise, asking if Narayana would effectively represent Tamil Nadu's interests, specifically mentioning the Mekedatu dam issue and the state's farmers' livelihoods.

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How can someone completely unrelated to Tamil Nadu be appointed to such a crucial position that is supposed to serve as a bridge between the central government and the Tamil Nadu government?

BJP Tamil Nadu chief Nainar Nagendhran called the appointment a "great shock," questioning how someone unrelated to Tamil Nadu could fill such a crucial role bridging the state and central governments. He further queried Narayana's ability to voice Tamil Nadu's concerns and culture in Delhi, given potential unfamiliarity with the Tamil language and culture.

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How can someone who is not fully aware of the mother tongue Tamil and our Tamil culture echo the thoughts of the Tamil people and the voice of Tamil Nadu government in Delhi.