Chennai, Nov 27 (NationPress) Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin fiercely criticized the BJP-led Union government on Thursday, asserting that it has been systematically eroding the core principles of social justice through policies such as the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and the reservation framework for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).

In a post shared on ‘X’ to commemorate the death anniversary of former Prime Minister V.P. Singh, Stalin expressed that the late leader's steadfast dedication to social justice is profoundly felt, especially during this period when the Union government is “burying social justice” under the pretense of reforms.

He highlighted that the implementation of NEET has already compromised the State's educational rights and has disproportionately impacted students from marginalized communities. Additionally, he argued that the EWS quota has further undermined the fundamental principles of reservation intended for historically disadvantaged groups.

Stalin reminisced about V.P. Singh's strong and lasting bond with Tamil Nadu and the former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi.

“He also extended the same warmth towards me,” the Chief Minister reflected, paying a heartfelt tribute to the former Prime Minister who enacted the Mandal Commission recommendations, transforming India's social justice landscape.

Stalin characterized V.P. Singh as a leader who did not cling to positions of authority, dedicating his political career to advocating for equality and empowering backward classes and marginalized sections.

“He championed social justice as his fundamental principle and never prioritized high office,” he noted. Stalin recalled unveiling V.P. Singh’s statue in Chennai, an occasion he described as profoundly significant.

Labeling Singh as a “champion of social justice,” the Chief Minister remarked that Singh's political legacy continues to motivate millions across India who advocate for equality and comprehensive development.

Stalin drew a stark contrast between Singh’s principles and the current Union government's policies, claiming that India is experiencing an unparalleled degradation of constitutional protections designed for socially oppressed communities.

He stated that the BJP government has consistently disregarded the concerns raised by Tamil Nadu and other States regarding NEET, despite clear evidence of its discriminatory effects on rural and underprivileged students.

At a time when the principles upheld by V.P. Singh are under siege, Stalin lamented that the nation sorely misses leaders who prioritized social justice over political gain.