Kanimozhi Lauded by Indian Diaspora in Spain for Emphasising ‘Unity in Diversity’ as India’s True National Language

DMK MP Kanimozhi, currently heading an all-party delegation from India, received praise from the Indian diaspora in Spain for her statement that the “national language of India is unity in diversity.”

Her remark came in response to a query posed during an interaction with the diaspora, where she emphasized that this message is what the delegation seeks to communicate globally.

A Subtle Counter to Language Policy Debate

Responding to the question about the national language, Kanimozhi said, “The national language of India is unity and diversity. That is the message this delegation brings to the world, and that is the most important thing today.”

This response arrives amid the ongoing friction between the Tamil Nadu government and the Centre regarding the three-language formula outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Composition of the Delegation and Mission

The delegation, led by Kanimozhi, also comprises Rajeev Rai (Samajwadi Party), Brijesh Chowta (BJP), Prem Chand Gupta (Rashtriya Janata Dal), Ashok Kumar Mittal (Aam Aadmi Party), and former diplomats Manjeev S Puri and Jawed Ashraf.

As part of their international engagement, the group has visited five nations to present India’s stance on the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and to reinforce its position on cross-border terrorism.

Support from Spain and Engagement with Victims of Terrorism

During their three-day visit to Madrid, the final leg of their international tour, the delegation met with Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares. Spain extended “unequivocal support” to India’s anti-terrorism efforts.

Additionally, the team met with the Association of Victims of Terrorism in Madrid, a prominent organization supporting over 4,000 victims globally. The interaction was focused on sharing insights and practices for supporting victims of terrorism.

Reaffirming India’s Security and Global Image

In response to another question, Kanimozhi emphasized India’s commitment to internal security and peace.

“So much has to be done in our country and we want to do that. Unfortunately, we are being diverted. We have to deal with terrorism, war which is absolutely unnecessary,” she said.

She further affirmed, “As Indians, we have to make the message clear that India is safe. They may try whatever they want, they cannot derail us. We will ensure that Kashmir remains a safe place.”

Operation Sindoor and Global Outreach

This visit is part of India’s international outreach after the events surrounding Operation Sindoor.

The operation was launched in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, believed to be carried out by Pakistan-sponsored militants, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals.

Following this, Indian forces reportedly struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The all-party delegation’s tour aimed to build international support for India’s stance on terrorism and to send a strong message of zero tolerance.

Bridging Terrorism Discourse and National Debate

Kanimozhi’s articulation of “unity in diversity” as the national language not only resonated with the diaspora but also provided a pointed response to ongoing domestic debates.

Her comment comes at a time when the Centre’s language policy, particularly the three-language formula in NEP 2020, has sparked tensions in Tamil Nadu.

Her statement also complements India’s global positioning on terrorism by underscoring the country’s internal unity.

This blend of cultural diplomacy and counter-terrorism advocacy underscores the delegation’s broader objective—representing India as a nation rooted in inclusive values while remaining uncompromising in its stance against terrorism.

Delegation’s Conclusion and Broader Implications

Spain marked the conclusion of the five-nation tour undertaken by the delegation. Apart from Kanimozhi, the group included Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Kumar Rai, BJP’s Brijesh Chowta, RJD’s Prem Chand Gupta, AAP’s Ashok Mittal, and former ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri.

Kanimozhi’s comments during the visit served dual purposes—addressing global concerns on terrorism and responding to domestic debates on identity and unity.

Her statement that “The national language of India is unity and diversity” captured the essence of India’s pluralistic society, sending a strong message both at home and abroad.