**Tamil Nadu Minister Criticizes Union Government’s Stance on Keezhadi Findings**
Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Finance and Environment & Climate Change, Thangam Thennarasu, has expressed strong criticism of the Union Government regarding its approach to the archaeological findings at Keezhadi. The minister questioned whether the Centre’s hesitance to acknowledge these significant discoveries was rooted in a desire to treat Tamils as “second-class citizens.”
Thennarasu’s comments were prompted by remarks from Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat during a recent press conference. Shekhawat stated that the Union Government would await further data before making any decisions on the Keezhadi findings, suggesting that the current evidence was not sufficiently robust. He emphasized the need for more results and proof, indicating that a single finding should not alter the broader historical narrative.
In response, Thennarasu accused the Centre of consistently finding excuses to dismiss the Keezhadi excavations, which have gained international recognition for their historical importance. He outlined a series of actions taken by the Union Government, including initial claims that nothing significant was found at Keezhadi, the transfer of the research officer, the withholding of funds, and the suspension of the submitted report for two years. Thennarasu argued that these actions reflect a pattern of denying Tamil history, with the reasons for such denials merely changing over time.
Shekhawat also cautioned against using the archaeological findings to incite regional sentiments, asserting that a careful approach is necessary until the research is fully completed. However, Thennarasu challenged the Union Government’s reluctance to accept the findings, pointing out that the global scientific community recognizes the Keezhadi civilization as over 5,350 years old and technologically advanced. He questioned whether the Centre’s stance was driven by a desire to maintain a perception of Tamils as second-class citizens.
Thennarasu concluded by asserting that history and the truths it reveals will ultimately prevail, regardless of political maneuvering. The Keezhadi excavations, which began in 2015 in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai and Sivaganga districts, have unearthed evidence of an ancient urban civilization along the banks of the Vaigai River, significantly contributing to the understanding of Tamil history and pushing back the timeline of the Sangam Age.
**FAQ**
**What are the Keezhadi archaeological findings?**
The Keezhadi findings refer to significant archaeological discoveries made in Tamil Nadu that suggest the existence of an ancient urban civilization over 5,350 years ago, contributing to the understanding of Tamil history and culture.
