Pudukkottai: Nearly 80% of students studying in government higher secondary schools in Tamil Nadu are unable to read or write Tamil fluently, according to Manivasagan, State Special President of the Tamil Nadu Higher Secondary School Postgraduate Teachers Association.

Addressing the media, he highlighted the decline in Tamil literacy among students, attributing it to the lack of adequate measures in schools to strengthen the language. He recalled that while Tamil and English were previously mandatory, an optional subject was available, which was later removed. If reintroduced, he stressed, it should not burden students.

He also warned against the introduction of a third language, stating that it would further complicate learning. "The absence of structured initiatives to enhance Tamil proficiency in schools has led to this alarming situation," he said.

Commenting on legal issues faced by teachers, Manivasagan claimed that nine out of ten cases filed under the POCSO Act against teachers were false, making it challenging for courts to deliver justice. He pointed out that teachers should only be disqualified upon conviction and criticized political decisions affecting their careers.

He further raised concerns over the disruption of academics, citing that out of the mandated 210 school days, 10 are lost due to cultural events. Additionally, he accused the government of failing to fulfill promises made to teachers, despite assurances given by the Chief Minister while in opposition.

With exams approaching, he urged the government to address teachers' demands immediately, warning that failure to do so might force them into protest, affecting students' education.