Stalin: Centre stalling Keezhadi project

Stalin expressed shock and dismay at state Tamil Development Minister K Pandiarajan’s statement refusing to believe that change of officer was the reason for the cessation of third-stage excavation at Keezhadi and the recently appointed archaeologist Sreeraman hinting at possible suspension of excavation there. 

Referring to the unearthing of artefacts showcasing the rich architecture and civilization of Tamils over 2,200 year ago, Stalin recalled the transfer of archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishnan from Keezhadi and subsequent statement of Pandiarajan and said that it was amply clear that BJP and 

AIADMK were working hand in glove to suspend a key excavation related to Tamil language and civilization. 

Citing the order of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court instructing archaeology department to involve the state in the excavation, the DMK working president said that he refuses to believe that the central archaeological department was acting unilaterally and creating confusions in such a key project. 

Reiterating the assurance of the Union Culture Ministry (in response to his letter) that excavations would continue at Keezhadi, Stalin urged the Centre not to stall the work. Stalin also condemned the reported attack on MDMK general secretary Vaiko allegedly by Sinhalese inside the UN Human Rights Council when the former was speaking on genocide against Eelam Tamils. 

Stating that it was unfortunate that a few Sinhalese had engaged in an act violating the human rights of a Tamil from India, Stalin asked the Centre to immediately register its condemnation against the alleged attack.