National News: An order issued to prevent school and college students from participating in political protests in Tamil Nadu has been withdrawn following massive protests. The state’s Directorate of Collegiate Education has now revoked this controversial order announced on August 17.
The order instructed officials and educational institutions to ensure that students and youth do not participate in political demonstrations, agitations and strikes organized by Left organizations or the CJP. Pressure on the government increased after political and social protests against the order started.
CJPHe called the order unconstitutional
CJP spokesperson Saurav Das strongly criticized the government’s decision. He termed the order as reprehensible and unconstitutional. He claimed that the right to protest peacefully is part of the democratic rights of citizens and the government cannot impose such restrictions to keep people away from political protests. The issue became more heated after CJP’s protest. The Directorate of Collegiate Education finally decided to withdraw its earlier order following criticism from the government.
BJP defended the government’s decision
On the other hand, BJP leader Vinoj P. Selvam had earlier supported the decision to keep students away from such demonstrations. He alleged that some political organizations involve students in demonstrations, but the latter do not take responsibility for them. Selvam said that students should focus on studies and career instead of spending time in political agitations. However, with the withdrawal of the order amid heavy protests, the political debate on the whole issue has become more intense.