Electoral scenario will change in 2029, NEET abolition will be first voice in Parliament: T.N. Minister Aadhav Arjuna

Tamil Nadu Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Aadhav Arjuna on Tuesday (September 1, 2026) contended the electoral scenario in the country would change in 2029 (during Lok Sabha elections) and the first voice in Parliament would be for the abolition of NEET.

“We firmly believe the electoral scenario will change. The first voice that echoed in the (Tamil Nadu) Assembly, the voice that took a pledge on the death anniversary of S. Anitha, who died by suicide, will lead to the scrapping of NEET. We pay tribute to her sacrifice, work and feelings,” he said in the Assembly on the ninth death anniversary of Anitha.

He also urged students to remain confident and hopeful. “Another life should not be lost. Victory will be outside. The Assembly will give self-confidence to every student. The political situation will change and answer will be given to the deaths. Let us carry out politics to find an answer to the tears and sacrifice of Anitha,” he said.

The Minister said it was no ordinary feat for Anitha, who was born in a socially disadvantaged community, to have had the courage to approach the Supreme Court against NEET. “She was the first student across India to raise her voice against NEET. She set an example. Her dream will come true one day,” he stated.

Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin said the Chennai city police had denied permission for a memorial meeting planned by students, youth and family members. “I would like to know why permission was denied,” he said.

Mr. Aadhav Arjuna said permission had been denied in view of the crowd and vehicular movement expected during the Velankanni Matha Church and Ellaiamman Temple festivals.

“If the venue is shifted to another place, the government will facilitate the meeting. Let us not politicise the issue,” he said.

Mr. Udhayanidhi said the DMK had no motive to politicise the issue. The Minister then said the government would give permission for holding the meeting at another venue.

(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416 and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050)

Tamil Nadu / Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam / parliament