The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, Mar 10, 2025: DMK MP Kanimozhi on Monday submitted a privilege notice in the Lok Sabha against Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging that his remarks on the National Education Policy (NEP) issue amounted to a “breach of parliamentary privilege” and sought action against him.
According to the notice, “The statement by the honourable Union Minister casts serious reflections and aspersions on Members of Parliament. His remarks undermine my dignity, as well as that of DMK MPs and our allies, violating our parliamentary privileges and rights.”
The notice followed Pradhan’s comments while responding to a question on the PM SHRI scheme in the Lok Sabha, where he accused the Tamil Nadu government of reversing its stance on the scheme during discussions on NEP.
Pradhan claimed that the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government had initially supported the centrally sponsored PM SHRI scheme, which aims to strengthen schools managed by central, state, or local authorities, but later changed its position.
Accusing the state government of dishonesty, he stated, “They are misleading the people and jeopardizing the future of Tamil Nadu’s students. Their approach is purely political.”
Furthermore, Pradhan remarked that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had initially agreed to the scheme but later altered his stance under the influence of what he termed a “super CM.” He added, “Today is March 10. There are still 20 days left in March,” implying that the Tamil Nadu government still had time to sign the MoU for the PM SHRI scheme.
The Union Minister’s remarks triggered a strong reaction from DMK members, escalating tensions between the state government and the Centre.
Expressing her outrage, Kanimozhi stated, “I am deeply hurt that the minister referred to MPs and the people of Tamil Nadu as uncivilized. This is unacceptable.”
She further clarified that during discussions, Tamil Nadu had clearly communicated its reservations regarding the NEP and its three-language policy, which is not acceptable to the people of the state.
“Our Chief Minister has already written to both the Prime Minister and the Education Minister, explaining our concerns with NEP and why it cannot be accepted in its entirety,” she emphasized.
The escalating disagreement over education policies continues to fuel the debate between the Tamil Nadu government and the Centre, with the DMK remaining firm on its opposition to NEP.
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