Palaniswami criticises DMK government over issues in State-run universities, higher education

All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami | Photo Credit: Akhila Easwaran

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Tuesday criticised the DMK government over the rising number of vacancies and the reported delay in disbursement of salaries to teaching and non-teaching staff in State-run universities.

In a statement, Mr. Palaniswami cited claims about financial crunch affecting State-run universities in the State, declining student admissions, alleged irregularities, among others. He also pointed to the delay in filling up Vice-Chancellors in at least 10 State-run universities.

Citing reports, the former CM said there were about 8,000 vacancies in about 160 government-run colleges over the past three years. “The quality of education has been affected. There is uncertainty over the future of students there.”

Mr. Palaniswami also referred to claim that there was irregularity in students getting doctorates from Bharathidasan University and Bharathiar University. Due to adminsitrative reasons, the student admissions declined during 2024-25, he said.

Pointing to the DMK government’s announcement that a university would be established in Tiruvarur district, Mr. Palaniswami underlined the delay in setting up the university. Referring to the delay in appointing Vice-Chancellors for universities, Mr. Palaniswami urged the State government to constitute committees to improve higher education and financial issues.

Published - June 04, 2025 05:35 am IST