Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
| Photo Credit: Sansad TV
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday (March 13, 2025) said removing the Indian currency symbol ‘₹’ from “Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26 documents” was more than mere symbolism. According to her, it signals a dangerous mindset that “weakens Indian unity and promotes secessionist sentiments under the pretence of regional pride. A completely avoidable example of language and regional chauvinism.”
In a post on X, Ms. Sitharaman said the rupee symbol ‘₹’ is internationally well-recognised and serves as a visible identity of India in global financial transactions. “At a time when India is pushing for cross-border payments using UPI, should we really be undermining our own national currency symbol?” she questioned.
She also questioned if the DMK had a problem with ‘₹’, why didn’t it protest back in 2010 when it was officially adopted under the Congress-led UPA government, when it was part of the ruling alliance at the Centre.
Published – March 13, 2025 10:31 pm IST
