Tiruchy, Aug 31:
Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) president and MP Thol Thirumavalavan on Sunday questioned the omission of references to B R Ambedkar and ‘Periyar’ E V Ramasamy from the Tamil Nadu government’s policy note on Backward Classes welfare, seeking an explanation from the officials and ministers concerned.
Speaking to reporters at Tiruchirappalli airport, Thirumavalavan said the absence of references to the two prominent social reformers in an official policy document had raised serious questions.
He questioned whether there was any ulterior motive behind the omission and urged the government to clarify how the references came to be left out.
Thirumavalavan said such lapses should not recur in government policy documents and called for an inquiry into the matter. He maintained that references to Ambedkar and Periyar were particularly significant in the context of social justice and the welfare of backward and oppressed communities.
The VCK leader also recalled the responsibilities of the Tamil Nadu government towards Dalits. He urged the government to strengthen measures for their protection and consider special legislation aimed at ensuring their welfare and safety.
The VCK, he said, expected the government to fulfil its commitments towards socially disadvantaged sections and take effective measures instead of allowing such omissions to occur in official documents.
The controversy comes at a time when questions relating to social justice, reservation and the protection of marginalised communities continue to occupy a prominent place in Tamil Nadu’s political discourse.
Thirumavalavan said his party would continue to press the government for corrective action and accountability over the issue.