Tamil Nadu Government Withdraws Controversial Order Barring Students From Participating in Protests

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government has withdrawn its controversial order prohibiting students and youth from participating in protests organised by left-wing organisations and the CJP. The order was revoked following strong protests against the directive.

Opposition parties and student organisations had come forward to oppose the circular, describing it as unconstitutional. Following the criticism, the Collegiate Education Department completely withdrew the circular that had directed authorities to submit reports on the action taken in this regard.

The department had earlier instructed the Education Department, Higher Education Department, police and district administrations to prevent students from participating in protests organised by the CJP.

Strong public opposition to the move to keep students away from protests prompted the government to withdraw the order. The directive had also drawn criticism for suggesting that the Tamil Nadu government was following the same approach as the Centre in dealing with protests.