The Keeladi archaeological excavation has once again ignited a heated political and academic debate between the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin and the Union BJP government. At the heart of the controversy lies the alleged delay by the Centre in releasing a detailed excavation report that archaeologists and state authorities claim reveals crucial evidence about Tamil civilisation dating back over 2,500 years.

The Keeladi site, located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, has emerged as one of the most significant archaeological findings in South Asia. The Tamil Nadu government, citing new research by UK’s Liverpool John Moores University, is urging the Centre to publish the findings without further delay. The research includes facial reconstructions of individuals from Keeladi, based on skulls excavated from the site and studied in collaboration with Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU) and Harvard University’s David Reich Lab.

Facial Reconstructions Reveal Tamil Lineage

According to Tamil Nadu Finance and Archaeology Minister Thangam Thennarasu, the facial features of individuals who lived in Keeladi around 2,500 years ago have been digitally reconstructed by researchers in the UK. The findings scientifically support the cultural richness and antiquity of Tamil civilization. The images, made using DNA samples, show genetic proximity to modern South Asians, thereby reinforcing the continuity of Tamil heritage.

Thennarasu accused the Union government of trying to suppress Tamil identity, stating, “Though the BJP government has deceitfully tried to suppress the history and heritage of Tamils, scientific evidence from Keeladi defeats such unjust denials.”

Chief Minister MK Stalin echoed similar sentiments, saying, “The way of life detailed in Sangam literature now stands scientifically validated through Keeladi.”

Archaeologist Transferred, ASI Demands Revision

The current row began when the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) allegedly refused to officially acknowledge the Keeladi excavation report submitted by archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishna, who led the first two phases of the dig. Despite submitting dating evidence of artefacts from 8th century BCE to 3rd century CE, the ASI reportedly demanded that the report be revised—a request Ramakrishna declined, citing academic accuracy.

Subsequently, Ramakrishna was transferred from his position, which drew criticism from several quarters, including DMK MP P. Wilson, who posted on social media, “You cannot bury history with propaganda. You cannot purchase scientific truths with money or power.”

The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology took over the Keeladi excavations in 2017, following the ASI’s exit. Now in its 11th phase, the excavation has continued to yield artefacts, burial remains, and other items pointing to a highly developed urban civilization that predated many northern counterparts.

DNA Collaboration with Harvard and MKU

The Ancient DNA Lab at Madurai Kamaraj University, led by Professor G. Kumaresan, has been working closely with Harvard’s David Reich Lab to analyse bones, grains, and burial materials. “We received the data and images last year. Facial reconstruction like this is done globally, and we did it to create a visual link with ancient Tamil lives,” Kumaresan explained.

These efforts, according to MKU scientists, demonstrate a scientific basis for Tamil culture’s antiquity, further discrediting earlier claims by central agencies that more data was needed.

Centre Denies Suppression, BJP Responds

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat earlier stated that the Keeladi report was not technically sound and that additional studies were needed before accepting the conclusions. The ASI, according to BJP spokespersons, has only sought clarifications—not rejected the report.

However, the BJP has accused the DMK of politicising archaeological findings to suit their linguistic and regional agenda. “DMK is mixing archaeology with politics. The ASI hasn’t rejected anything—it just asked for clarification,” BJP leaders have maintained.

The Core of the Controversy

• The ASI initially managed the first two phases of Keeladi excavations from 2015 to 2017.

• Archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishna, who led these phases, submitted a report that dated Tamil civilisation back to 8th century BCE.

• The ASI demanded changes in the report, which the archaeologist refused to make.

• The project was then handed over to the Tamil Nadu state archaeology department, under which the excavation is now in its 11th phase.

What’s at Stake?

The implications of this controversy are vast. On one hand, it involves academic freedom, transparency, and scientific validation. On the other, it reflects the ongoing political tussle between the Union BJP government and the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government, often marked by clashes over language, federalism, and cultural identity.

MK Stalin’s strong stance is consistent with the DMK’s long-standing efforts to preserve and promote Tamil language, culture, and history. The party views the Keeladi findings as pivotal proof of the Tamil people’s ancient contributions to civilization, and any delay in publication as deliberate suppression.

Conclusion

The Keeladi excavation, once a purely academic endeavour, has now evolved into a symbol of Tamil identity, pride, and political assertion. With scientific evidence supporting the antiquity of Tamil culture, and with international collaborations enhancing the scope of findings, the demand for transparency and publication of the official report is growing louder.

As the Centre and State lock horns, the academic community and Tamil people alike await the official recognition and release of a report that could reshape the historical narrative of India’s southern past.

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