Sun Feb 16 06:27:48 UTC 2025: **Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Condemns Union Minister’s Threat Over Education Funds**
CHENNAI, February 16, 2025 – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has strongly criticized Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for threatening to withhold education funds unless the state accepts the National Education Policy (NEP) and its three-language formula. Stalin accused Pradhan of “brash blackmail” and warned that Delhi might need to reconsider its approach if the funds are withheld.
Pradhan, during a recent media interaction, stated that Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the NEP, particularly concerning PM SHRI schools, was politically motivated and violated the Indian Constitution. He insisted the state must fully embrace the NEP.
Stalin challenged Pradhan to cite the constitutional provision mandating a three-language policy, emphasizing that education falls under the Concurrent List, meaning the Union government doesn’t have sole authority. He reiterated Tamil Nadu’s commitment to its two-language policy, established by former Chief Minister Annadurai, and declared the state would not accept the NEP’s perceived imposition of Hindu and Sanskrit.
MDMK general secretary Vaiko echoed Stalin’s sentiments, condemning Pradhan’s threat to withhold funds and voicing concerns about the NEP’s potential to impose Hindi and Sanskrit.
The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between the central and state governments over the implementation of the NEP in Tamil Nadu. The state’s staunch defense of its existing language policy underscores the deep-seated cultural and political sensitivities surrounding the issue.
First Piper 