Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced on Wednesday that his government will withdraw cases filed against farmers and teachers who protested during the previous DMK administration. He criticized the former government, led by MK Stalin, for its harsh treatment of individuals exercising their democratic rights to protest. Vijay described the previous approach as ‘inhumane.’
He added that many of those involved continue to face difficulties as the cases remain pending. Addressing the state Assembly, Vijay said several cases were registered against protesting farmers and teachers between May 2021 and 2026 for their livelihood, rights and legitimate demands.
“This government will stand by farmers and teachers and their just demands… He added that, in view of the difficulties faced by those booked in such cases, the Tamil Nadu government had decided to withdraw all cases registered against the protesting farmers and teachers. Meanwhile, the CPI has called on the Vijay-led TVK government to extend the decision to cases filed against those who protested against the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), including students.
Earlier reporting noted: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay on Wednesday announced the withdrawal of all cases registered against farmers and teachers between May 2021 and April 2026 for peacefully protesting for their livelihood, rights and legitimate demands.
This move will further strengthen democratic rights and reinforce trust between common people and government,” the Chief Minister said. “Even though teachers protested in a democratic manner, cases were filed and are still pending,” Vijay said. Earlier reporting noted: The TVK government said the decision was taken on humanitarian grounds and in keeping with democratic principles.
