Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tamil Nadu state president K. Annamalai has raised concerns over the allocation of ₹44,042 crores to the Tamil Nadu Education Department, questioning its utilization.In a statement issued recently, Annamalai referred to a resolution passed at the Tamil Nadu Private Schools Association event, where the School Education Minister, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, welcomed the decision to improve 500 government schools with assistance from nearby private schools. “Does the Tamil Nadu government lack funds to improve its own schools?” Annamalai asked, adding that the announcement has raised questions among the public.
Allegations of Mismanagement
Annamalai highlighted that the Tamil Nadu government allocated ₹44,042 crores to the education sector for this financial year and continues to borrow approximately ₹1 lakh crore annually. He accused the DMK government of failing to fulfill its election promise of reconstructing 10,000 dilapidated government school buildings, even after nearly four years in power.
He further pointed to recent incidents, such as the inability of the School Education Department to pay ₹1.5 crores for district education offices’ internet connectivity, leading to service disruptions.
Accountability Demanded
“Where is the ₹44,042 crore allocated to the education department going? Why is the DMK government in a position where it has to rely on private organizations to provide basic facilities for students? The government is neglecting its responsibilities toward improving infrastructure for students, the future pillars of our nation,” Annamalai asserted.
He urged the DMK government to clarify its spending and take immediate steps to address the infrastructural and financial issues plaguing the education system.