NEP row: Ruining future of students for politics: Pradhan to TN Govt

The controversy unfolded during Question Hour, when DMK MP T Sumathy questioned Pradhan on why nearly Rs 2,000 crore originally allocated to Tamil Nadu under the PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme had been diverted to other states. Sumathy argued that the diversion was due to Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the three-language formula under NEP-2020.

In response, Pradhan claimed that Tamil Nadu had initially shown willingness to implement the PM-SHRI scheme but later made a U-turn, asserting that several DMK MPs, including Sumathy, had met him to discuss the scheme’s implementation. His statement triggered an uproar in the House, with DMK members rising in protest and storming the well of the House, vehemently opposing his claims.

As tensions escalated, Pradhan hit back, accusing the Tamil Nadu government of prioritising language politics over the welfare of students. “They are dishonest, undemocratic and uncivilised… They are not committed to Tamil Nadu students. They are ruining their future. Their only job is to raise language passion and do politics,” he said.

At this point, DMK MPs, led by Dayanidhi Maran, gathered near the Speaker’s chair, leading to an adjournment of proceedings for half an hour.

When the House resumed at 12 noon for Zero Hour, Kanimozhi objected to Pradhan’s comments, stating that Tamil Nadu’s reservations against NEP-2020 had been clearly conveyed to the minister in an official meeting. She also noted that Chief Minister MK Stalin had personally expressed his opposition in letters to both Pradhan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Pradhan, acknowledging the backlash, agreed to withdraw his remarks and requested the Speaker to remove them from the records. However, he stood by his claim that the Tamil Nadu government had initially supported the PM-SHRI scheme but later backtracked.

Despite this, DMK MPs continued to protest, with Sumathy rejecting Pradhan’s version, reiterating that education is a state subject and that Tamil Nadu would not accept the scheme even if the Centre allocated Rs 10,000 crore for it.

Meanwhile, Speaker Om Birla issued a stern warning to DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran amid ongoing protests over the ‘Hindi imposition’ row. Birla reprimanded Maran, cautioning him against disrupting proceedings and challenging him to make his remarks on record.

“I gave you time. I allowed the minister to speak. This is not the right way. You may please return to your seat. Respected member, be wary while you speak. I dare you to say this on record, and I will suspend you from the House,” the Speaker warned.