The Tamil Nadu government has issued an order prohibiting programmes or gatherings by political parties, religious organisations and caste associations in the premises of all types of schools across the state.
The order states that the ban applies even on school holidays. Schools have also been told not to rent out or provide their campuses free of cost for any political or religious activity, regardless of the reason.
According to the government, school premises should be used only for government welfare scheme functions and other official government work. The order also bars political or religious posters, advertisements, flagpoles and symbols on school walls and within campus limits.
The directive follows a recent controversy over party functionaries filming “reels” inside government school campuses and classrooms. The School Education Department has warned that if headmasters or school managements permit such activities in violation of the order, immediate disciplinary action and legal proceedings will be initiated against those responsible.
