TGSWREIS Secretary refutes allegations, defends reforms agenda

Telangana Gurukul Secretary Alagu Varshini. File | Photo Credit: SIDDHANT THAKUR

HYDERABAD

The Telangana Social Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (TGSWREIS) Secretary V.S. Alagu Varsini has defended the Society’s reform agenda, rejecting allegations and criticisms surrounding Gurukul institutions.

Addressing a press conference at Welfare Bhavan in Hyderabad on Saturday, she clarified that cleaning activities are a life skill, not labour, aimed at nurturing future-ready citizens, not exploit them. “Great leaders like Gandhi and Ambedkar emphasised personal hygiene and the dignity of work. Our students call me ‘Amma.’ I treat them as my children. Encouraging them to be responsible for their surroundings is about nurturing future-ready citizens, not exploiting them,” she said.

The Secretary alleged large-scale financial irregularities under previous leadership, including unauthorised appointments and misuse of government funds. Expressing concern over being targeted based on her caste, Varsini said, “I come from a BC farming family. I have climbed each step through sheer perseverance. It’s heartbreaking when caste becomes a tool to diminish merit.”

Underscoring the milestones achieved under her tenure, she said that they were able to complete the admissions process for all Gurukuls in May for the first time. “We’ve streamlined the system to ensure transparent and merit-based seat allocation. All students needed were caste and income certificates - nothing more,” she said, adding that the approach ensured fair access for marginalised and high-performing students.

She also mentioned that Gurukul buildings are being repaired for the first time since their inception, emphasising that infrastructure reflects the respect given to learning environments. She warned against targeting principals and faculty, assuring that attacks on educators will not be tolerated and that show-cause notices and FIRs will be filed if necessary. The Secretary also condemned the selective editing of her speech into misleading audio clips.

Published - May 31, 2025 11:44 pm IST