Jaffna Cultural Centre Renamed: Modi Welcomes
The renaming of the cultural centre set up in Jaffna has drawn sharp criticism from Tamil people and politicians. In this context, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the naming of this cultural centre built under Indian assistance as “Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre”.
Prime Minister Modi shared this issue on his X platform. That is, “It is a tribute to Thiruvalluvar and also serves as a testament to the cultural, linguistic, historical and civilizational bonds between the people of India and Sri Lanka.”
Indian External Affairs Minister
Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said, “We see the naming of the cultural centre located in Jaffna after Thiruvalluvar as an important event that will further strengthen India-Sri Lanka relations.” He said in his X platform that this is a major development project undertaken under Indian assistance.
Governor R.N. Ravi
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi has welcomed the name change to “Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre” as a step forward in spreading Tamil pride and Prime Minister Modi’s initiative. He said that this will further strengthen cultural and civilizational ties between India and Sri Lanka.
Former Minister Douglas Devananda
Meanwhile, former Eelam People’s Democratic Party Minister Douglas Devananda has pointed out that the name change is the signature of evil forces who are trying to destroy the identity of Tamils in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka. He further said, “The removal of the name Jaffna is trying to destroy the identity of Tamils.”
Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekaran
Regarding the name change, Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekaran said, “I did not expect the name of Jaffna to be named as Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre. It is not a crime. But the name ‘Jaffna Cultural Centre’ would have been better,” he said.
The renaming of this cultural center has sparked debates among Tamil people and politicians, creating a new dimension to the cultural bonds of India-Sri Lankan relations.
In honor of great Tamil poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar, the Cultural Center in Jaffna was today renamed as 'Thiruvalluvar Cultural Center' in a ceremony attended by HC @santjha, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious & Cultural Affairs Hon. Sunil Senevi & Governor Northern Province. pic.twitter.com/TbeggDDNmZ
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) January 18, 2025