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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay on Tuesday reaffirmed the state's opposition to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and reiterated support
for the two-language policy, using his first formal address in the Assembly to underline key education priorities of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government. Addressing the Assembly, Vijay said NEET continues to create inequality in access to medical education and defended Tamil Nadu's long-standing demand for an alternative admission system. The state has consistently argued that admissions to medical courses should be based on Class 12 marks rather than a national entrance examination, maintaining that NEET places students from rural and state board backgrounds at a disadvantage.
NEET Creates Inequality, Says Vijay
Speaking on the medical entrance examination, Vijay said the existing system creates disparities among students and affects equitable access to higher education. Tamil Nadu has repeatedly sought exemption from NEET UG exam and advocated admissions based on Class 12 performance.
The chief minister also reiterated his government's commitment to the state's two-language policy amid continuing debates over language education. Stressing the importance of linguistic diversity and state autonomy, he signalled that the TVK government would continue to oppose any perceived imposition of a three-language formula.
Defending Tamil Nadu's Language Policy
Addressing the language policy debate, Vijay said Tamil Nadu would continue to follow its two-language formula of Tamil and English, maintaining that the existing framework adequately serves students while preserving the state's linguistic identity.
The chief minister also used the occasion to respond to critics who have dismissed TVK as an "actor's party". Vijay said the party's rise to power was the result of years of struggle and public support, adding that it had overcome several "conspiracies and restrictions" before winning the 2026 Assembly elections.
He further addressed the September 2025 Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives, expressing grief over the tragedy and criticising political opponents for attributing blame to his party. Vijay concluded by asserting that his government would work for every family in Tamil Nadu and remain committed to the welfare of ordinary people.
(With inputs from ANI)
