Madurai (Tamil Nadu) Jun 14 (PTI) Emphasising the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards substance abuse, Tamil Nadu Minister for School Education and Tamil Development Rajmohan on Sunday said a massive crackdown is underway to eradicate the drug menace “root and branch” from the state.
Addressing reporters after inspecting the preparatory work for the government exhibition here, the minister revealed that recent law enforcement actions have led to the arrest of 1,238 offenders. Furthermore, non-bailable warrants have been issued against approximately 2,000 individuals, ordering them to surrender immediately.
“In total, around 4,000-plus criminals involved in drug-related offenses will be immediately remanded and jailed,” Rajmohan said, adding that narcotics seized over the last five years are being systematically destroyed across various districts. “Achieving a drug-free Tamil Nadu is our ultimate goal under the leadership of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay,” he asserted.
Responding to queries regarding vacant administrative and teaching positions in government schools, the Minister stated that he recently held a comprehensive 45-minute briefing in Chennai with Chief Educational Officers (CEOs) to streamline school management.
“We discussed student mental health, infrastructure, food quality, model schools, and engaging alumni as ambassadors,” he said.
On filling up vacancies, Rajmohan assured that the department is working closely with the Teachers Recruitment Board (TRB) to expedite hiring, while legal routes are being pursued to resolve pending court matters.
He defended the government’s recent decision to close 717 TASMAC liquor shops, clarifying that the move specifically targeted outlets operating near educational institutions to prevent negative influences on school-going children.
Asked about rising instances of cyber-attraction and behavourial issues among students, the Minister said that the state will scale up counselling, confidence-building, and motivational sessions. He emphasised that physical education (PT) periods must not be cancelled under any circumstances across Tamil Nadu schools to ensure students stay physically active and mentally clear.
Rajmohan also clarified his stance on religious and social markers in schools, following criticism from political opponents like BJP’s Vanathi Srinivasan.
“My statements were misinterpreted. I was referring to external elements instigating caste-based divisions among students through things like coloured friendship bands. Normal practices remain unaffected. I myself went to school sporting ‘vibhooti’ and ‘kumkum’,” he clarified.
Regarding infrastructure projects in Madurai, Rajmohan stated that 80 per cent of the renovation work at the government exhibition site and museum facilities is complete, and the remaining 20 per cent will be finished within a few months. He also expressed his intent to consult with officials to secure funding for a comprehensive, multi-faceted museum in Madurai.
Taking a swipe at the opposition AIADMK following criticisms by former minister R B Udhayakumar regarding water management and the Mekedatu issue, Rajmohan attributed the current water scarcity to a “Super El Niño” climate phenomenon.
“Politicians need to understand science along with politics. The opposition should engage in self-reflection given their consecutive electoral defeats instead of politicising climate issues,” he remarked. PTI JR JR ROH
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