The CPI(M) State secretary, P. Shanmugam, on Friday (August 21, 2026), demanded the removal of Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary M. Sai Kumar over the controversial circular on prevention of student protests and announced demonstrations across Tamil Nadu on Saturday (August 22).

On Friday, the CPI(M) cadre led by the Left party’s state secretary Shanmugam protested in Salem against the privatisation of the drinking water supply in Salem Corporation. Later speaking to reporters, Mr. Shanmugam said the State government sent circulars to colleges and universities to prevent students from participating in protests organised by the Communist parties and Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).

“Communist parties had fought for India’s freedom and this circular is illegal. It has been sent by the Chief Secretary, allegedly to crush the Left parties and their student and youth wings. The CPI(M) demands the removal of Chief Secretary M. Sai Kumar from the post immediately,” said Mr. Shanmugam.

Demanding this, CPI(M) will stage demonstrations across the State on Saturday.

Likewise, a Tahsildar had ordered to collect the details of CPI and CPI(M) members in revenue villages in Dindigul district. In his response to the issue, Revenue Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan, in the Assembly, said the Tahsildar was posted to carry out survey works. But, on the contrary, the Dindigul district administration claimed that the Tahsildar was posted for training.

“Was the Tahsildar sent for a survey on Communists? Who is telling the truth? The Tamil Nadu government should clarify in this regard. After CPI(M) took this issue to the Chief Minister, the Tahsildar was transferred. This transfer is not enough and action should be taken against the Tahsildar,” Mr. Shanmugam added.

Govt. should reconsider announcement on cars for MLAs

Demanding to withdraw the decision of privatising the drinking water supply in Salem Corporation, Mr. Shanmugam also said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has announced a government car each for all MLAs. Car for all MLAs is not acceptable. The government can help MLAs who have no cars, to buy cars. The government should reconsider this announcement.

The government has hiked the Aavin milk procurement price by ₹3 per litre. But, this is not adequate and all milk producers' associations are demanding a hike of ₹10 per litre. So, the government should consider this, Mr. Shanmugam added.

Published - August 21, 2026 05:06 pm IST