VP Radhakrishnan Defends Public Exams Bill at Sastra University Event

Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Monday defended the recently passed Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill 2026, stating that stringent legislation is essential to punish offenders and protect law-abiding citizens.

Speaking at the valedictory function of the ruby and silver jubilee celebrations of Sastra deemed-to-be university, Radhakrishnan emphasised that strict laws are necessary to prevent unfair practices in public examinations across the country.

Reflecting on his previous tenure, Radhakrishnan recalled that a similar bill had been passed by the Jharkhand Assembly when he served as Governor of that state. He noted that despite receiving advice against granting assent, he remained committed and signed the bill into law.

During his address, the Vice-President urged students to pursue meaningful research focused on addressing real-world challenges. He referenced India’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting how Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged scientists to develop indigenous vaccines, which ultimately enabled large-scale domestic production and administration.

Radhakrishnan outlined central government goals for higher education, stating that the Centre aims to increase the gross enrolment ratio from 30 per cent to 50 per cent. He underscored the need to make higher education institutions significantly more research-oriented.

Expressing serious concern over the rising use of narcotics among youth and students, Radhakrishnan referenced the recent murder of a youth in Coimbatore. He said such incidents must not be repeated and confirmed that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance and take firm action to curb drug abuse.

Encouraging students to discover their talents through persistent effort, Radhakrishnan cited mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan as an inspiring role model. He also praised Thanjavur as the granary of Tamil Nadu and the cradle of its art and culture, recalling the historic contributions of Chola rulers Raja Raja Chola and Rajendra Chola.

Touching on regional concerns, he noted that Aadi Perukku celebrations in the Cauvery delta had to depend on borewell and piped water supplies this year, while expressing hope that the Mettur dam would soon achieve full storage capacity.

The valedictory event was attended by Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar, Sastra Chancellor R. Sethuraman, Vice-Chancellor S. Vaidhyasubramaniam, Dean S. Swaminathan, and Registrar Chandramouli.