CPI(M) blames Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary for student protest curbs

The CPI(M) has pointed to Tamil Nadu's Chief Secretary as the architect behind a contentious circular limiting student involvement in protests organized by Left parties, escalating tensions between the communist outfit and the state administration.

Party leader Shanmugam alleged that a high-level meeting, chaired by the Chief Secretary, resulted in the decision to restrict student participation in such demonstrations. He characterized the move as a violation of fundamental democratic rights, particularly the constitutional guarantee to protest and assemble.

The circular has drawn sharp criticism from Left organizations, which argue it impedes students' freedom of expression and right to political participation. The CPI(M) has called for immediate withdrawal of the order, contending that curbing peaceful protest undermines democratic norms.

The development marks an escalation in the ongoing confrontation between communist parties and the Tamil Nadu government over civil liberties and administrative overreach. Student organizations affiliated with the Left have announced plans to challenge the directive through appropriate channels.