The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by prominent actor-politician Vijay, launched widespread protests across Tamil Nadu on Thursday, demanding the immediate abolition of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). The coordinated demonstrations saw participation from thousands of party members and supporters who voiced strong opposition to the medical entrance examination.
Statewide Demonstrations Gain Momentum
Protests erupted simultaneously in multiple districts across the state, with significant gatherings reported in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, and several other urban centers. The protests were strategically timed to amplify the growing discontent among students and political groups in Tamil Nadu regarding the central government's imposition of NEET.
In Chennai, party workers assembled at the DME campus, carrying banners and placards that clearly stated their demands. The demonstrations remained largely peaceful throughout the day, with participants following organized protest protocols. Similar scenes unfolded across various district headquarters where TVK cadres mobilized in substantial numbers to voice their opposition.
Political Leadership and Demands
The protests were organized under the direct leadership of TVK president Vijay, who has been increasingly vocal about educational reforms in the state. While Vijay did not participate in person at all locations, his party leadership coordinated the statewide demonstrations effectively. The primary demand centered on eliminating NEET from the medical admission process in Tamil Nadu, citing concerns about fairness and accessibility.
Party representatives emphasized that NEET creates an uneven playing field for students from rural backgrounds and those educated in state board schools. They argued that the examination favors urban students and those who can afford expensive coaching classes, thereby undermining the principle of equal opportunity in education.
Growing Opposition to National Testing
The TVK protests represent the latest chapter in Tamil Nadu's ongoing resistance to national-level entrance examinations. The state government and multiple political parties have consistently opposed NEET, claiming it infringes upon the state's rights regarding education policy. This protest movement has gained significant political traction in recent years, with both ruling and opposition parties expressing similar concerns.
The timing of these demonstrations is particularly significant as they come amid ongoing debates about educational autonomy and states' rights in determining admission criteria for professional courses. The substantial turnout at Thursday's protests indicates that the issue continues to resonate deeply with the public and political organizations across Tamil Nadu.
As the protests concluded, TVK leaders vowed to continue their agitation until their demands are met. They warned of intensifying their movement if the central government fails to address their concerns regarding NEET and its impact on medical education in Tamil Nadu.
