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Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday called for the expansion of Kerala-Tamil Nadu’s cooperative federalism model to other states. He emphasised its role in resisting frequent encroachments on states’ rights, particularly economic autonomy.
Speaking at a public gathering at Vaikom Beach after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated the renovated Thanthai Periyar Memorial and Periyar Library, Vijayan hailed the enduring partnership between the two southern states.
“Our cooperation embodies the principles of cooperative federalism, demonstrating unity through actions, not just words,” Vijayan said. He noted the necessity of extending this model nationwide to strengthen state self-respect and autonomy in the face of mounting central interventions.
A LEGACY OF UNITY AND REFORM
Recalling the historic Vaikom Satyagraha, Vijayan underscored the enduring bond between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, rooted in their shared commitment to social justice and reform. “The Vaikom struggle, led by visionaries like Periyar, transcended regional concerns, becoming a national movement for equality,” he remarked.
Vijayan praised Periyar’s pivotal role, recounting his arrest and tireless campaigning for the cause. He also highlighted the contributions of Periyar’s wife, Nagammai, who mobilised women and advocated for progressive reforms. “Their efforts paralleled those of Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule in Maharashtra,” he said.
Periyar’s advocacy for reforms such as raising the marriage age, securing women’s right to choose partners, and enabling divorce rights left an indelible mark on the social fabric, Vijayan added.
STRENGTHENING COOPERATION
Drawing parallels between the self-respect championed by Periyar and the contemporary need for states to assert their rights, Vijayan expressed confidence in Kerala and Tamil Nadu’s continued collaboration. “In today’s context, this unity is more crucial than ever,” he said.
Stalin inaugurated the renovated Thanthai Periyar Memorial and Periyar Library in Vaikom, commemorating EV Ramasamy’s contributions to the Vaikom Satyagraha and the larger self-respect movement. Last year, Stalin allocated Rs 8.14 crore for the memorial’s renovation as part of the Vaikom Satyagraha centenary celebrations.
Stalin also honoured Kannada writer and Vaikom Award recipient Devanur Mahadeva at the event, attended by dignitaries including Dravida Kazhagam president K Veeramani, Kerala ministers VN Vasavan and Saji Cherian, and Tamil Nadu ministers Durai Murugan and AV Velu.
