Chennai – A fresh sign erected along State Highway 93, covering the Sathankulam‑Nazareth stretch in Thoothukudi district, ignited a controversy when Hindi text appeared alongside Tamil and English. The picture went viral on social platforms, triggering immediate public outcry.
Hindi Text Quickly Erased
Within a few hours, officials pulled down the Hindi portion, invoking Tamil Nadu’s long‑standing two‑language directive that confines official road signage to Tamil and English only. The administration warned that any breach of this rule would invite disciplinary action.
Two Highway Officers Put on Suspension
According to a government release, an assistant divisional engineer and an assistant engineer from the highways department have been suspended. A departmental probe has been ordered to identify who authorised the inclusion of Hindi on the board.
Government Issues a Firm Caution
Authorities reminded staff that future violations of the two‑language policy will attract "strict action". The incident has rekindled a broader debate about language usage on public infrastructure, a particularly sensitive issue in the state.
Political Leaders React
Opposition leaders were quick to criticize the lapse. Former chief minister and DMK stalwart M. K. Stalin stressed the need to respect the state’s linguistic norms, while PMK chief Anbumani Ramadoss called for accountability.
With the Hindi script now removed and disciplinary proceedings underway, the Tamil Nadu government has reaffirmed its commitment to the prescribed Tamil‑English signage policy across all state highways.
