Sun Feb 08 13:50:23 UTC 2026: ### Headline: SIO Releases Election Manifesto Ahead of Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections, Calls for Increased Muslim Reservation and NEET Exemption

The Story:

The Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) has unveiled its election manifesto in anticipation of the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Mohamad Jafar, the State secretary of SIO, emphasized the organization’s key demands, which include enacting legislation against hate speech and targeted attacks against Muslims, and abolishing the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). The manifesto addresses a range of social and educational issues, seeking to influence policy and advocate for student and minority rights.

Key Points:

  • SIO calls for a law against hate speech and targeted attacks against Muslims in Tamil Nadu.
  • The organization reiterates its demand to abolish the NEET exam, citing its impact on backward and economically weaker students.
  • SIO demands a complete ban on alcohol and drugs, including the closure of TASMAC outlets near educational institutions.
  • The manifesto includes calls for restoring student union elections, filling assistant professor vacancies, issuing community certificates to tribal students, and mandating minimum wages for teachers in private schools.
  • SIO is seeking a waiver of all existing educational loans and an increase in Muslim reservation in education and employment beyond the current 3.5%.

Critical Analysis

Not Applicable. The provided context offers no actionable data for critical analysis.

Key Takeaways:

  • SIO is actively participating in the political discourse surrounding the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
  • The manifesto highlights issues of specific concern to the Muslim community and students in Tamil Nadu.
  • The demands reflect broader social justice concerns, including educational equity, fair labor practices, and combating substance abuse.
  • The focus on NEET exemption and increased reservation indicates a push for affirmative action policies.

Impact Analysis

Not Applicable. The provided context offers no actionable data for impact analysis.

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