Is the Stalin Government 'Bankrupting' Universities?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu BJP chief, Nainar Nagenthran, has raised alarms over the DMK government's handling of State universities, claiming they are facing a financial crisis. He highlights the withdrawal of funds from the University of Madras' corpus fund as a significant concern and calls for urgent government action to prevent further damage to the education sector.
Key Takeaways
- Nainar Nagenthran criticizes the DMK government for financial mismanagement.
- The University of Madras has withdrawn funds from its corpus to cover essential expenses.
- Insufficient State funding has led to recruitment challenges for professors.
- Other universities are experiencing similar financial difficulties.
- The crisis poses a threat to the future of higher education in Tamil Nadu.
Chennai, Nov 30 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu BJP president, Nainar Nagenthran, has accused the DMK administration, under Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, of leading major State universities into a severe crisis.
In a pointed remark, Nagenthran expressed his shock and concern over reports indicating that the University of Madras had withdrawn ₹95 crore from its corpus fund to settle pension arrears due to insufficient operational funds.
He described this as a disgraceful situation, asserting that the DMK government is effectively bankrupting universities.
Nagenthran emphasized that the University of Madras, one of India's oldest and most esteemed institutions, has faced struggles for years owing to insufficient State financial support.
He stated, “It is widely known that the university has been unable to hire the necessary number of professors due to financial constraints. The fact that they are tapping into the principal amount from the corpus fund—rather than just the interest—to cover pensions illustrates the severity of the crisis,” he remarked.
According to him, corpus funds are intended to provide long-term financial stability and meet emergency needs, not to cover routine expenses like salaries and pensions.
“If the university has resorted to utilizing the principal amount, it clearly indicates there is no other funding available for even basic expenses,” he added.
Nagenthran claimed similar challenges are emerging across other universities as well.
Faculty members at Kamaraj University and Annamalai University have been protesting over delayed salary and pension payments, he noted, with institutions consistently responding that there are “no funds available.”
“This has now transformed into a recurring crisis throughout Tamil Nadu's higher education system,” he stated.
He criticized the DMK government for spending substantial amounts on promotional campaigns that portray Tamil Nadu as a leader in education, while allegedly neglecting to provide essential funds to universities.
“Instead of enhancing higher education, the DMK is undermining universities, jeopardizing students' futures, and engaging in empty promotional activities. The government ought to feel ashamed,” Nagenthran asserted.
He urged the State government to take prompt action to stabilize the financial condition in universities before irreversible damage is inflicted on the academic sector.
Point of View
A balanced and fair assessment is crucial. While political leaders express concerns, it is essential for the government to focus on sustainable funding solutions. The implications of financial instability in higher education are far-reaching, impacting not only students and faculty but also the overall development of the State. It is vital for all stakeholders to come together to address these pressing issues with transparency and urgency.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main accusation made by BJP leader Nainar Nagenthran?
Nainar Nagenthran accuses the DMK government of financially crippling major State universities, citing the withdrawal of ₹95 crore from the University of Madras' corpus fund as a key example.
Why are universities in Tamil Nadu facing a crisis?
The financial crisis in Tamil Nadu's universities is attributed to insufficient State funding, which has led institutions to deplete their corpus funds for routine expenses like salaries and pensions.
What are corpus funds meant for?
Corpus funds are intended to ensure long-term financial stability for institutions and to meet emergency financial needs, rather than to cover regular expenses.
What actions does Nainar Nagenthran suggest the government take?
Nagenthran urges the State government to implement immediate measures to stabilize the financial situation in universities to prevent long-lasting damage to the academic sector.
What are the implications of the financial crisis on faculty and students?
The financial crisis affects faculty recruitment and salary payments, leading to protests and putting students' education and futures at risk.
