Education Dept seeks response on Rahul’s college event

Two days after Rahul Gandhi interacted with the students of Stella Maris College here, the Directorate of Collegiate Education has asked its regional joint director to explain how an educational institution was used for "discussion involving a political leader" when the Model Code of Conduct is in place.

The circular stoked a political controversy with Tamil Nadu Congress Committee chief K S Alagiri demanding its revocation and asking the AIADMK government to not be vindictive.

The circular came close on the heels of the BJP taking objection to the interaction at the college on Wednesday, saying Rahul Gandhi made political speeches among students.

Rahul Gandhi, during his interaction with the students on Wednesday, spoke about various issues, including the Rafale deal and why he hugged Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament last July.

In a statement, Alagiri said the invitation for the discussion was extended to Rahul Gandhi a few months ago and quoted a statement, reportedly made by the Chief Electoral Officer Satyabrata Sahoo, that the interaction does not violate the Model Code of Conduct.

"How can the Tamil Nadu government object to an interaction by Rahul Gandhi in a college? If the Tamil Nadu government acts against a prestigious institution like Stella Maris College, then I warn them that they will have to face consequences. I demand that the circular be withdrawn," Alagiri said.