Thalapathy Vijay Announces Withdrawal of Cases Against Tamil Nadu Farmers, Teachers

Chennai: The Thalapathy Vijay-led government of Tamil Nadu made a major announcement on Wednesday. The state government declared that it would withdraw all criminal cases filed against farmers and teachers who participated in peaceful protests supporting their livelihoods, rights, and other valid demands during the period from May 2021 to April 2026. Announcing this decision in the Legislative Assembly under Rule 110, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay described the move as an effort to protect democratic rights and rebuild trust between the government and the common citizens.

Who will benefit?

This order will cover cases filed against farmers who opposed the proposed Tamil Nadu State Industries Promotion Corporation (SIPCOT) industrial estate in Tiruvannamalai district. Cases registered during the prolonged agitation against the proposed greenfield airport at Parandur in Kancheepuram district will also be withdrawn. Residents of Parandur and surrounding villages had staged continuous protests against the airport project, arguing that it would lead to the acquisition of fertile agricultural land, damage water bodies, and destroy traditional sources of income.

During the agitations, the previous government had registered cases against several protesters. Some farmers were even detained under the 'Goondas Act,' a move that drew criticism from political parties, civil society organizations, and human rights activists. The government stated that, on humanitarian and democratic grounds, the cases would be withdrawn regardless of the specific legal provisions under which they were filed. Necessary instructions will be issued to the concerned departments and officials to initiate the withdrawal process. Officials to Examine Cases

Officials will review the cases and complete the necessary legal formalities before submitting them to the appropriate courts. This decision is expected to bring relief to farmers who have been repeatedly appearing before courts and police officials in connection with protest demonstrations. The announcement also applies to teachers who participated in peaceful protests over the past five years. Teachers' organizations had staged protests regarding issues such as salaries, pensions, job security, the regularization of temporary staff, promotions, and working conditions.

Hundreds of Protesters Likely to Benefit

The government maintains that individuals should not have to face protracted criminal proceedings merely for raising legitimate grievances through peaceful and democratic means. Chief Minister Vijay stated that the administration recognizes the right of farmers, teachers, and other sections of society to express their concerns without the fear of punitive action. This move is likely to benefit hundreds of protesters across the state. The government noted that withdrawing the cases would strengthen democratic values, reduce unnecessary litigation, and foster more constructive relationships between citizens and the administration. (Agency Input)