Is the Use of Temple Funds for Education Justified? TN Minister Responds to EPS
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Synopsis
In a fierce rebuttal, Tamil Nadu's HR&CE Minister P. K. Sekarbabu defends the use of temple funds for education, countering AIADMK leader EPS's criticism. This ongoing debate raises questions about the role of religious resources in public welfare—are they justified in building educational institutions?
Key Takeaways
- HR&CE funds are used for public welfare, including education.
- Sekarbabu defends the initiative amid criticisms.
- Community protests show support for educational projects.
- Temples have a historical role in community development.
- This debate highlights the intersection of religion and public policy.
Chennai, July 9 (IANS) In a robust defense, Tamil Nadu's HR&CE Minister P. K. Sekarbabu has taken aim at AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), who criticized the allocation of funds from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department for the establishment of educational institutions. Sekarbabu accused Palaniswami of being “steeped in ignorance” and failing to recognize historical practices.
His remarks followed Palaniswami's comments during a public meeting in Coimbatore, part of his state-wide campaign ‘Makkalai Kaappom, Thamizhagathai Meetpom’. The AIADMK leader questioned the DMK government's decision to use temple donations for building colleges. “There is nothing wrong in building colleges,” Palaniswami asserted, adding that the previous AIADMK government used its own funds, rather than donations from devotees.
In response, Sekarbabu highlighted the successful establishment of numerous educational institutions with HR&CE funds. “What is wrong with building colleges for the welfare of students?” he challenged, dismissing Palaniswami's comments as misinformed. “His remarks only expose his ignorance about the functioning of the HR&CE department and its long-standing tradition of using temple resources for public good.”
The Minister also emphasized that temples under the HR&CE department have historically played a vital role in community development, particularly in education and healthcare.
In support of the government initiative, parents of students from Arulmigu Sri Kapaleeswarar Arts and Science College, located in Chief Minister M. K. Stalin’s Kolathur constituency, protested against Palaniswami’s criticisms. Holding placards stating “It is not wrong to build colleges using temple funds,” they expressed their support for the government's actions.
The Kolathur college, one of the institutions constructed using HR&CE funds, currently enrolls over 750 students across five academic streams. Sekarbabu noted that the parent community's protest reflects a rising public endorsement of HR&CE's initiatives to utilize temple resources for enhancing educational access, especially in underserved areas.
Point of View
The discourse surrounding the use of temple funds for education in Tamil Nadu emphasizes the intersection of religion and public welfare. While some view it as a beneficial resource allocation promoting community growth, others raise concerns about the ethical implications involved. This ongoing debate merits attention as it reflects broader societal attitudes towards religious contributions in public services.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are HR&CE funds?
HR&CE funds are resources allocated from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department, aimed at supporting educational and charitable initiatives within the community.
Why did EPS criticize the use of temple funds?
EPS criticized the use of temple funds for building educational institutions, claiming that the previous AIADMK government utilized its own funds for such projects.
What was Sekarbabu's response to EPS?
Sekarbabu defended the initiative, stating that using temple funds for education is historically justified and beneficial for students' welfare.
How do communities feel about this initiative?
Many parents, particularly from institutions funded by HR&CE, have expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the need for more educational facilities.
What historical precedent exists for using temple funds in education?
Historically, temples have contributed to community development in areas like healthcare and education, making such allocations a longstanding practice.
