Those fuelling religious conflict are enemies of the nation, says Vaiko

Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) general secretary Vaiko on Saturday said those who try to create conflict in the name of religion are the only enemies of the country.

Speaking at the golden jubilee celebrations of Quaide Milleth Boys’ College in Medavakkam, Mr. Vaiko said Quaide Milleth Muhammad Ismail was a symbol of honesty, simplicity and discipline and the college named after him was an example of secularism. He also recalled various important events in the late leader’s life and his contributions throughout his decades-long political career.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) political bureau member G. Ramakrishnan said teachers should inculcate critical thinking in students. He also alleged that the Center was diluting the powers of institutions like the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the University Grants Commission (UGC).

G. Viswanathan, founder and rector of VIT, emphasized the importance of improving standards of higher education and said India’s progress depends on health and education. He also spoke extensively about economic inequality in the country and measures to overcome it.

Dravidar Kazhagam president K. Veeramani, in his virtual address, recalled his association with the college and the important role the institution plays in imparting higher education and discipline to students. S. Sathik, former Vice-Chancellor of Madras University, lauded the contributions of Quaide Milleth and recalled the late leader’s emphasis on making Tamil a national language when he was a member of the Constituent Assembly.

An exhibition of rare photographs of Quaide Milleth was also opened. Rev. Bishop V. Devasagayam of the Church of South India; PA Khaja Mohinudeen Baqavi, president of Tamil Nadu Jamathul Ulama Sabai; MG Dawooj Miakhan, secretary and correspondent of the university; and college principal M. Amuthul Thawab were among those present.