MK Stalin Says Tamil Nadu Tops Women’s Safety Rankings, Challenges BJP on NEET Exemption

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin told the State Assembly that Tamil Nadu ranks among the safest states for women and children, citing data released by the Union government. His remarks came during a heated exchange in the Assembly and triggered sharp political reactions, particularly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Responding to comments made by BJP Legislature Party leader Nainar Nagenthran, Stalin stated that the Centre’s own figures demonstrate Tamil Nadu’s strong performance on law and order indicators. He asserted that the state compares favourably with others in ensuring safety and security for women and children.

Stalin said that incidents affecting public safety, including communal disturbances, remain relatively low in Tamil Nadu. He also urged the Assembly Speaker to consider law and order situations in other parts of the country while evaluating national trends.

During the debate, the Chief Minister claimed that several BJP-ruled states perform poorly in comparison on women’s safety indicators. He added that he is prepared to present evidence supporting his claim and challenged opposition members to examine the data.

NEET exemption demand intensifies

Shifting focus to education policy, Stalin renewed his demand for exemption from the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), the centrally conducted medical entrance examination. The NEET issue has remained a major political and social concern in Tamil Nadu, with the state government arguing that the exam disadvantages students from rural and state-board backgrounds.

Stalin challenged the BJP to secure an exemption for Tamil Nadu, stating that the party now has the authority to act since it leads the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He questioned whether the BJP would use its power at the Centre to grant the exemption, reiterating the state government’s long-standing position on the issue.

Political remarks and national issues

During his speech, Stalin also referred to remarks he said were made by a BJP member using the term “Modimastan,” questioning whether such claims were officially endorsed. He further raised the 2014 election promise regarding the return of black money and the proposed deposit of ₹15 lakh into citizens’ bank accounts, asking what progress had been made.

The exchange reflects ongoing political tensions between the ruling DMK and the BJP over governance, education policy, and national political commitments.

The NEET controversy continues to be a significant electoral and policy issue in Tamil Nadu. Supporters of exemption argue it protects social justice and equal opportunity, while supporters of NEET maintain it ensures uniform standards in medical education admissions.

Stalin’s statements are expected to intensify political debate in the state and at the national level, particularly on issues of federal authority, education policy, and public safety.