TNCC demands apology from Governor over education remarks

The Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) has launched a sharp attack on Governor R N Ravi over his recent comments on the state's education standards, with party president K Selvaperunthagai demanding a public apology.

Accusing the governor of undermining Tamil Nadu’s academic reputation, Selvaperunthagai alleged that Ravi had crossed constitutional limits and disrespected the authority of the democratically elected state government.

The dispute intensified following the Governor’s conduct during a convocation ceremony at Anna University, which he presided over without the presence of Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister K Ponmudy.

The TNCC viewed the move as a deliberate slight to the state administration.

"It reflected a pattern of the governor bypassing democratic norms and procedures," Selvaperunthagai said.

The TNCC chief also criticized the governor's decision to unilaterally extend the tenure of the vice-chancellor of Periyar University, describing it as a violation of the principles of federalism.

He argued that the Governor’s actions ignored the state’s right to manage its educational affairs and contravened constitutional boundaries.

"Tamil Nadu has historically maintained high educational standards," Selvaperunthagai said, adding that "it is unacceptable for any constitutional authority to question or diminish the state’s academic achievements."

He claimed the Governor's remarks had caused widespread resentment among students, educationists, and the public.

He further asserted that the governor's recent conduct fits into a broader pattern of interference in state matters, which he believes is eroding both the dignity of the governor’s office and the cooperative federal structure enshrined in the Constitution.

"The governor must focus on fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities without becoming a political figurehead," he said.

The TNCC’s demand for an apology comes at a time of growing tension between the state government and the Raj Bhavan.

Opposition parties have repeatedly accused Governor Ravi of acting in conflict with the state’s elected leadership.

Reaffirming its support for Tamil Nadu’s educational institutions, the TNCC underscored the importance of upholding democratic principles, state rights, and the federal spirit.