Stalin alams NEP as ‘Destructive’ for Tamil Nadu, calls out Pradhan’s ‘Rude’ remark

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday reaffirmed his opposition to the National Education Policy (NEP) and criticized Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for his controversial remark against the state. Stalin accused the Centre of using pressure tactics and imposing policies that could harm Tamil Nadu’s education system.

Speaking at a welfare assistance event near Chennai, Stalin highlighted the state’s economic progress. “Tamil Nadu is India’s second most economically developed state. We secured over ₹10 lakh crore in private investments in three years. Without hurdles, our growth would be even stronger,” he said.

Centre’s ‘Blackmail’ Over Education Funds

Stalin alleged that the Centre withheld ₹2,000 crore in education funds, demanding the state adopt the triple language policy, including Hindi and Sanskrit. “We will never accept NEP. Not for ₹2,000 crore, not even for ₹1,00,000 crore. This policy is dangerous,” he declared.

He warned that NEP would privatize education, limit opportunities for students, and centralize control. “They want to privatize education, restrict higher education to the rich, mix education with religion, and impose public exams on young children. NEET-like entrance exams for arts, science, and engineering will give the Union government more control,” he added.

Pradhan’s Remark and Retraction

Stalin also condemned Pradhan’s “uncivilized” remark about Tamils, which was later expunged from records after the BJP leader apologized. “Pradhan insulted Tamils, but within half an hour, our MPs forced him to take it back. I appreciate them for their strong stand,” he said.

Reiterating his stance, Stalin vowed to protect Tamil Nadu’s education system from policies that undermine regional autonomy.