Kathmandu— On Tuesday, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed two unanimous resolutions signaling strong opposition to policies originating from the central government. Lawmakers voted to urge the withdrawal of the proposed Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, citing concerns over its impact on charitable and minority institutions, and reaffirmed their long-standing demand for the abolition of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for medical admissions within the state. The resolutions reflect a unified front across political lines regarding issues of state rights, social justice, and access to education.

FCRA Amendment Concerns

Tamil Nadu Minister Rajmohan moved the resolution opposing the Foreign Contribution Regulation Bill, raising concerns about potential negative effects on educational institutions, hospitals, and organizations relying on foreign contributions. He explained that proposed changes could lead to cancellation of registrations and impact vital services provided by these entities. The state government emphasized the need for regulatory procedures aligned with constitutional principles and argued against provisions allowing the government to seize assets of charitable organizations upon FCRA registration issues, advocating instead for due process and an opportunity to be heard.

NEET Debate Continues

The Assembly also passed a resolution seeking amendments to central laws to discontinue NEET for undergraduate medical admissions in Tamil Nadu. Health Minister K Arunraj argued that the examination undermines social justice, equality, and state rights. The state government maintains that NEET disadvantages students from rural areas and economically weaker backgrounds, particularly those educated in Tamil-medium schools, due to their reliance on expensive private coaching. They propose basing medical admissions on Class 12 exam results instead.

Political Alignment and Dissent

The resolutions garnered widespread support from parties including the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, and PMK, demonstrating a rare display of unity in the state assembly. However, the BJP’s lone MLA, M Bhojarajan, opposed the NEET resolution, arguing it provides opportunities for students and urging the state to focus on improving access to coaching resources. He staged a walkout during the vote. DMK Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson confirmed his party's firm opposition to the FCRA amendments, having already voiced concerns to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Calls for Consultation and Safeguards

The resolutions call for comprehensive consultations with state governments and stakeholders before finalizing the FCRA bill, as well as safeguards based on principles of natural justice and federalism. Tamil Nadu argues that any changes to the FCRA framework must balance national security concerns with the legitimate functioning of charitable organizations. Similarly, regarding NEET, the state seeks a system that ensures equitable access to medical education for all students.

The resolutions passed by the Tamil Nadu Assembly are expected to escalate the ongoing dialogue between the state and central governments on these critical issues, potentially leading to further negotiations or legal challenges.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.