Anbumani claims 43% seats vacant in T.N. government arts and science colleges due to falling standards

Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) leader Anbumani Ramadoss on Thursday (June 25, 2026) expressed concern over the sharp fall in admissions to government arts and science colleges in Tamil Nadu, claiming that 43% of seats remain vacant this year.

In a statement, he said of the 1.26 lakh seats available in 181 government arts and science colleges, only around 71,500 seats had been filled so far, leaving over 55,000 vacant. He attributed the decline in enrolment to the falling quality of education in government colleges, pointing to a large number of vacant faculty posts.

He said more than 9,000 assistant professor posts and several non-teaching positions remained unfilled, affecting academic standards and driving students towards private colleges despite their higher fees.

Dr. Anbumani urged the Tamil Nadu government to immediately fill all vacant teaching posts in government arts and science colleges to restore students’ confidence and improve enrolment.