The DMK have time and again branded themselves as custodians of the Tamil language and have often denounced Hindi as a language that would ‘kill’ Tamil. But here is what is happening in Dravidian Model Tamil Nadu.
The Tamil University Protection Movement has raised concerns that Tamil University in Thanjavur is facing a serious risk of closure due to ongoing administrative and financial difficulties.
Addressing reporters, the movement’s coordinator Maniarasan stated that the university, established by former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran across 972 acres, was envisioned as a multidisciplinary research institution focusing on language, ethnicity, and anthropology. However, he reported that the institution is currently grappling with a prolonged administrative vacuum, with key positions such as Vice-Chancellor and Registrar remaining unfilled for several years.
As reported in Dinamalar, he further stated that several academic departments are being managed by individuals lacking the required qualifications, resulting in a slowdown of research activities. Units such as the Drama Department and the university’s publishing division, which previously functioned effectively, have witnessed a significant decline. The publishing wing has been shut down, and research output has reduced considerably.
According to the movement, the university’s library and publishing divisions, which earlier had designated staff including a director, deputy director, and assistant librarians, are now functioning without personnel. It also reported that the institution has not been procuring new books or journals.
The movement alleged that a substantial portion of the university’s original 972-acre land has been allocated for other government purposes, including offices for the Forest Department, Collector, and Superintendent of Police. It further noted that 55 acres have been earmarked for the establishment of a Chola Museum, leaving the university with significantly reduced land holdings.
The coordinator also stated that the university, which should fall under the Higher Education Department, is currently under the Tamil Development Department, leading to complications in funding allocation. He warned that these issues have pushed the institution toward a potential shutdown.
The movement has demanded the immediate appointment of a qualified Vice-Chancellor and Registrar, restoration of the university under the Higher Education Department, and the revival of academic recognitions such as the Rajarajan Award.
It also announced plans to submit formal demands to the government starting June and to organise continuous protests to press for corrective measures.
Subscribe to our channels on WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and YouTube to get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
