Why is TN Congress MP Sasikanth Senthil on a Hunger Strike Over SSA Funds?
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Synopsis
Sasikanth Senthil, a Congress MP from Tamil Nadu, continues his hunger strike despite health concerns, demanding the release of essential SSA funds. This protest highlights the state's educational funding crisis and has drawn national attention, urging citizens to advocate for their rights.
Key Takeaways
- Sasikanth Senthil continues his hunger strike demanding SSA funds.
- Health concerns have not deterred his commitment to the cause.
- Withholding of funds affects millions of students and teachers.
- Significant political support has emerged for his protest.
- The situation raises questions about federal funding and education equity.
Chennai, Aug 31 (NationPress) Sasikanth Senthil, the Congress MP representing the Tiruvallur Lok Sabha constituency, has embarked on an indefinite hunger strike demanding the immediate release of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds for Tamil Nadu. He remains under medical supervision at the Tiruvallur Government Medical College Hospital as of Sunday, yet he is determined to continue his protest.
Senthil, who previously served as an IAS officer, initiated his fast-unto-death on Friday at the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) office located on the premises of the Tiruvallur Collectorate. His health began to decline by the second day, with doctors reporting an increase in his blood pressure, prompting his hospitalization on Saturday.
Despite health risks, Senthil took to social media to assert that he would not end his strike until the Union government disbursed the overdue funds. He criticized the BJP-led Centre for withholding Tamil Nadu's rightful share of ₹2,152 crore under SSA, which he argues adversely affects 43 lakh students and 2.2 lakh teachers within the state.
He maintains that the withholding of funds constitutes a breach of constitutional principles and compromises children's rights to fair education. Senthil urged the citizens of Tamil Nadu to raise their voices in a democratic manner, demanding the Prime Minister and Union Education Minister to release the funds impartially, free from political or linguistic biases.
“This struggle is not personal,” he stated, underscoring that his protest aims to protect the integrity of the state’s educational framework.
On Sunday, State Minorities Welfare Minister SM Nasar visited the MP in the hospital to check on his well-being. Members of the Federation of Secondary Grade Teachers, who successfully passed recruitment exams, also visited him to show their support for his cause. The protest has garnered national attention.
Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi contacted Senthil on Saturday to express solidarity and commend his dedication.
Furthermore, Congress Lok Sabha whip B. Manickam Tagore called upon Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to take action, labeling the Centre's conduct as an “assault on federalism and democracy.” He reiterated that denying states their rightful financial allocations is tantamount to political punishment.
As Senthil enters the third day of his fast and remains under close medical observation, pressure is escalating on the Centre to address the demands. Currently, the Congress MP is resolute that his hunger strike will persist until Tamil Nadu receives the SSA funds.
Point of View
The situation surrounding Sasikanth Senthil's hunger strike serves as a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about federal funding and state rights. It underscores the importance of equitable educational resources across India. The call for action reflects broader concerns regarding governance and accountability in the distribution of funds.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the SSA funds?
The Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds are allocated by the government to enhance the quality of education across India, specifically aiming to benefit students and teachers.
Why is Sasikanth Senthil on a hunger strike?
Sasikanth Senthil is on a hunger strike demanding the release of ₹2,152 crore in SSA funds that he believes are essential for the education of millions of students in Tamil Nadu.
What are the implications of withholding SSA funds?
Withholding SSA funds can severely impact the educational infrastructure and resources available to both students and teachers, leading to long-term consequences for the state's educational system.
Who has shown support for Senthil's protest?
Senthil has received support from various political leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, and members of the Federation of Secondary Grade Teachers, highlighting the widespread concern for educational funding.
How has the public reacted to the hunger strike?
The public has been urged to raise their voices in support of Senthil's demands, emphasizing the importance of equitable funding for education in Tamil Nadu.
