Tamil Nadu CM C Joseph Vijay announces withdrawal of cases against protesters

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced in the State Assembly that the government will withdraw legal cases filed against farmers and teachers who participated in peaceful protests between May 2021 and April 2026. The decision, made under Rule 110, targets individuals booked during the previous DMK administration for protesting over livelihood, rights, and welfare issues.

Specific beneficiaries include farmers who agitated against the proposed SIPCOT industrial estate in Tiruvannamalai—some of whom were booked under the Goondas Act—as well as those involved in protests against the Parandur airport project regarding agricultural land and water body concerns. Teachers booked during protests over their professional demands will also receive relief.

Chief Minister Vijay described the move as a humanitarian and democratic measure intended to protect freedom of expression and strengthen trust between the government and the public. However, the announcement led to a political confrontation in the Assembly, with opposition members from the DMK questioning the intent of the decision and demanding similar relief for protesters booked after the current government took office.