CHENNAI: A fervent plea has been made by Pattali Makkal Katchi leader G.K.Mani to introduce a compartmental reservation system in the State for the benefit of the backward classes, most backward classes and Dalits.

Participating in the debate on the motion of thanks to the Governor's address, he said on Tuesday that the system was being followed in some States, including Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, ensuring due representation to different communities.

Even while welcoming the 27 per cent reservation announced by the Centre for other backward classes in Central educational institutions of excellence, he sought Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi's intervention to see that the creamy layer concept was not introduced under the quota system.

Liquor shops

Mr.Mani urged the State Government to reduce the number of liquor shops run by the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation. He also demanded a probe into issues relating to granting permission to private teacher training colleges during the previous All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam rule.

He favoured the setting up of a separate commission to conduct elections to cooperative societies in the State.

Flaying the AIADMK Government for merging Perambalur and Ariyalur districts, he asked the Government to bifurcate Coimbatore, Salem and Villupuram districts for administrative purposes.

Leader of the Congress Legislature Party D. Sudarsanam urged the Government to take immediate steps to bring down the cost of cement and reinforced iron rods, by holding talks with the manufacturers. If the Government found it difficult to do so, he sought import of cement at cheaper rates.

In view of problems faced by Anna University in performing its twin responsibility of promoting research and development on the one hand and taking care of the 250-odd affiliate colleges on the other, he asked the Government to reduce its burden.

This could be done either by setting up a separate technical university as in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh or streamlining the activities of Anna University.

Restore `Tilak Square'

Mr. Sudarsanam asked the Government to take necessary steps to remove "irregularities" in the allotment of sites by the Tamil Nadu Housing Board.

He pleaded with the State Government to set an example to other States by passing a resolution in the Assembly in support of the Centre's move to provide 27 per cent reservation for other backward classes in higher educational institutions.

He requested the Government to restore the historic `Tilak Square' on the Marina.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail