Coimbatore: A Class 10 student at a government-aided higher secondary school in Coimbatore was allegedly forced to take a transfer certificate (TC), sparking concerns over increasing pressure on schools to maintain a 100 per cent pass rate.

According to sources, the student, who reportedly has learning difficulties, was issued a TC after the school convinced the parents to consent to the move. A specific alternative school was even recommended for admission, classmates said.

The incident comes amid growing criticism that the centum pass culture, previously observed predominantly in private institutions, is now being adopted by government-aided schools as well.

The Tamil Nadu School Education Department had earlier directed all schools, including private ones, not to expel students with learning disabilities or issue TCs under pressure.

When contacted, the school principal denied any coercion, claiming that the TC was issued solely based on the parents' request.

With schools in Tamil Nadu set to reopen shortly after the summer break, the incident has raised fresh questions about inclusive education practices and the mental health impact of academic performance pressure on students.