Why is MDMK leader Vaiko criticizing the Centre over withheld RTE funds in TN?
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Synopsis
In a strong statement, MDMK leader Vaiko lambasts the Union government for withholding crucial funds for Tamil Nadu's Right to Education Act. He demands immediate action to ensure that school admissions can proceed without delay, highlighting the negative impact on public education and calling for unity among opposition parties.
Key Takeaways
- Vaiko criticizes the Union government for withholding RTE funds.
- Legal action has been initiated in Madras High Court.
- Funds are essential for school admissions to commence.
- The Centre has not released its financial share since 2021.
- Political coercion is alleged in financial decisions.
Chennai, May 25 (NationPress) Vaiko, the General Secretary of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), has strongly condemned the Union government for its failure to release Rs 617 crore in outstanding payments intended for the enforcement of the Right to Education (RTE) Act in Tamil Nadu.
On Saturday, he called upon the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Central government to promptly allocate these funds to facilitate the initiation of admissions under the RTE scheme.
In his statement, the veteran MDMK leader pointed out that the prolonged delay has resulted in legal repercussions, with a case already lodged in the Madras High Court concerning the Centre's negligence.
“During the court proceedings, the Tamil Nadu government emphasized that the financial obligations under the RTE Act must be divided in a 60:40 ratio between the Union and State governments. Yet, the Centre has failed to fulfill its share since 2021,” Vaiko stated.
He accused the Union government of leveraging funding to pressure states into adopting policies like the New Education Policy (NEP).
“Despite committing to various agreements and obligations, the Centre continues to withhold essential funds. This constitutes political coercion,” he remarked.
Moreover, Vaiko criticized the government for its refusal to release Rs 2,291 crore allocated for the Samagra Shiksha Scheme, a key educational initiative.
He asserted that the funds were withheld because Tamil Nadu chose not to implement the three-language policy suggested by the Union government.
“Such stipulations infringe upon the principles of cooperative federalism and unfairly target states that oppose Central directives,” he asserted.
The MDMK leader accused the BJP administration of undermining public education in Tamil Nadu by denying vital financial assistance.
“Education is a fundamental right, and no government should deprive children of their right to education over political disputes,” he stressed.
Vaiko demanded the immediate release of the withheld funds to allow school admissions under the RTE Act to commence without further hindrance.
He also urged other opposition parties and civil society organizations to voice their concerns against what he termed as “an unjust and anti-democratic act.”
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the complexities surrounding the funding of education in India. The ongoing dispute between the Centre and state governments over financial allocations highlights the need for cooperative federalism. The demand for transparency and fair distribution of funds is crucial for ensuring that every child has access to education, a fundamental right in our democracy.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Right to Education Act?
The Right to Education Act is a legislation in India that mandates free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14.
Why are the funds being withheld?
The funds are reportedly being withheld as leverage for states to adopt the New Education Policy and other Central directives.
What is the Samagra Shiksha Scheme?
The Samagra Shiksha Scheme is a flagship program aimed at improving school education across India.
How has this affected admissions in Tamil Nadu?
The delay in fund disbursement has hindered the commencement of school admissions under the RTE Act in Tamil Nadu.
What action has been taken against the Centre?
A case has been filed in the Madras High Court regarding the Centre's inaction over the release of the funds.
