DMK MP Kanimozhi urges UGC to reschedule NET in Jan due to Pongal

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi on Sunday urged the Centre to reschedule the University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) exam of various subjects scheduled on January 15 and 16 as they coincide with the Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu and accused the government of showing "complete insensitivity towards the sentiments" of the state.

- Sanjay Maurya

NEW DELHI:

In a letter to Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Thoothukkudi MP said, "It (Pongal) is deeply connected with the cultural identity of Tamils and conducting UGC-NET exams on that day would affect both the Pongal celebrations and exam preparations of the students from Tamil Nadu."

Sharing a copy of the letter on X, she said, "Pongal is not just a festival; it is a celebration of Tamil pride and identity. This is not mere negligence—it is a deliberate affront to our cultural heritage. Once again, the Union Government has exposed its blatant disregard for our state and its people."

She said: "I would like to bring your attention towards the recent announcement by NTA regarding the schedule for the UGC-NET exams for awarding Junior Research Fellowship, Assistant professor appointment and Ph.D. admissions."

"The exams have been scheduled between January 3, 2025, to January 16, 2025. The exams for 30 subjects have been scheduled on January 15 and January 16, which are Pongal days in Tamil Nadu... I request you to postpone the exams scheduled on January 15 and 16 to later dates," the DMK MP said.