TN govt bans political, ideological activities in private school campuses

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government has barred private schools from allowing political, ideological, or communal activities on their campuses, stating that educational institutions must remain neutral spaces dedicated to learning.

The School Education Department issued a government order on March 2 introducing amendments to the Tamil Nadu Private Schools (Regulation) Rules. The changes are aimed at ensuring that school infrastructure is used mainly for academic purposes and student welfare.

Under the revised rules, school premises, including buildings, playgrounds, and halls, cannot be used for programmes, meetings, campaigns, or training sessions conducted by outside individuals or organisations that promote political, ideological, communal, or divisive agendas.

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The order states that the restriction covers activities that may encourage disharmony or ill will based on religion, caste, race, language, or community. Importantly, the prohibition applies not only during school hours but also after classes, including on weekends, public holidays, and during winter or summer vacations.

The government clarified that certain non-political and non-sectarian activities, such as blood donation camps, social service programmes, and cultural events, may still be allowed. However, such programmes will require prior approval from the relevant authority and must be organised under the supervision of the school management.

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The amendment follows a controversy involving a private school in Cuddalore. In December 2025, Sri Saraswathi Vidyalaya allowed Seva Bharati to organise a camp on its premises during the winter holidays.

When the School Education Department issued a show-cause notice, the school management challenged the action in the Madras High Court, arguing that existing rules prohibited such activities only during school hours.