Dhinakaran raps state govt over noon meal issue

In a statement, the RK Nagar legislator said that any move to reduce the number of noon meal centres will have an adverse effect on economically-weak students, who rely on the mid-day meals sponsored by the state.

Citing media reports about a possible strike by workers against the decision to shut down noon meal centres that has less than 25 students, Dhinakaran said the scheme, nourished by late AIADMK leaders MGR and ‘Amma’ (Jayalalithaa), had been successfully catering to 51 lakh students.

“This successful scheme is also replicated in other states by their local governments. Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami has stated that this is ‘Amma’ government is functioning based on the fundamentals laid down by party leaders. Is this the ‘Amma’ led government,” Dhinakaran wondered.

Stating that the decision will also result in lack of employment for temporary workers, he said the government should ensure that the patronage to the noon meal centres is enhanced.

According to official sources, the circular was issued based on a government order passed in early 90’s, under which the State is permitted to shift workers and close centres which have a less number of beneficiaries.