Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday addressed a student interaction programme titled “Voice of Students” at Island Grounds in Chennai, urging young people to “ask questions” and assert their constitutional right to do so.
In his remarks, Gandhi alleged that attempts were being made to impose Hindi on the people of Tamil Nadu, and claimed that Tamil language, culture and history were being treated as secondary. He also said the Centre was linking the release of ₹3,500 crore for Tamil Nadu to the implementation of the New Education Policy.
Gandhi criticised the NEET examination, claiming it had led to 87% of Tamil students’ MBBS seats going to candidates from other states. He further alleged that around 70% of state universities were functioning without vice-chancellors, blaming the Governor and claiming universities were being steered by RSS members.
He also opposed constituency delimitation, alleging it was aimed at reducing Tamil Nadu’s representation and suppressing the state’s voice. Referring to developments in Delhi, he claimed the city had been shut down, internet services cut and students attacked by police, and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of undermining democracy and the Constitution.
Gandhi said he would not allow what he described as an attack on Tamil culture or on India’s democratic framework, reiterating that citizens must continue to question those in power.
