The Dravida Munnetra Kazgaham (DMK) in political confrontation filed a notice against the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in the Lok Sabha. This controversy has erupted remarks in Tamil Nadu regarding Samagra Shiksa Scheme and the PM_DHRI initiative that the claims were defamatory and misleading.
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The Core of the Controversy
Responding to a query by DMK MPT Sumathy for the non-disbursal of funds for Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksa Scheme began when Pradhan responded. Query allegedly made statements that DMK leaders are highly misleading and damaging the image of the state.
Pradhan agreed to sign an MoU with the Centre for PM-SJRI but was retracted later highlighting that the state is not consistent in the commitments.
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Additionally, Pradhan referred to DMK members as “uncivilised” during a heated parliamentary debate. The DMK took strong offense to these remarks, asserting that such language was derogatory and unbecoming of a Union Minister.
DMK’s Response: The Privilege Notice
In response to Pradhan’s statements, senior DMK leader Kanimozhi filed a privilege notice, accusing the minister of deliberately misleading Parliament and defaming Tamil Nadu. The notice emphasized:
- Pradhan’s claim about Tamil Nadu’s agreement and subsequent withdrawal from the MoU was false and intended to mislead the House.
- His remarks tarnished the image of Tamil Nadu and its representatives.
- Labeling DMK MPs as “uncivilised” was a serious breach of parliamentary decorum.
The privilege notice seeks accountability and urges Parliament to take appropriate action against the minister for his alleged misconduct.
Political and Social Ramifications
This incident has reignited tensions between the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government and the BJP-led Central government. Key issues under scrutiny include:
- Tamil Nadu’s Language Policy: The DMK has long opposed the Centre’s push advocating for English and Tamil in edcuation instead.
- The National Education Policy (NEP) Debate: The concerns about the NEP’s impact of Tamil Nadu’s education by the state government.
- Central-State Relations: The controversy highlights the ongoing friction between regional parties and the Union government over federal autonomy and policy implementation.
What’s Next?
Lok Sabha Speaker addressed the issue with a filed privileged notice. The matter can be referred to the privileges committee if the issue accepted, leading to further disciplinary action and debates.
The intensifying protest in both outside and inside of the parliament hinted by DMK, calling a apology from Pradhan.
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Meanwhile, the BJP has defended the minister, claiming his statements were factual and taken out of context.
Final Thoughts
The political underscores the deep-seated administrative and ideological differences between the center and Tamil Nadu’s ruling party. As the debate is unfolding it is likely to form the discussions on the policies of education, parliamentary conduct, and federalism in the coming weeks.
Share Your Thoughts
What are you thinking about the notice against the Education Minister? Will it affect the Center-State relations? Share your valuable views and don’t forget to share on social media!