Cuddalore: Tension briefly prevailed at C Kandaswami Naidu College for Women in Cuddalore on Thursday after police were forced to push back and disperse VCK cadres who tried to breach security barricades to meet party president and Chidambaram MP Thol Thirumavalavan.The commotion occurred during the institution’s annual graduation ceremony, which functions under the Pachaiyappa’s Trust. Thirumavalavan, the chief guest of the ceremony, delivered the convocation address and conferred degrees upon graduates. Trouble started when a large number of VCK functionaries and cadres gathered outside the college to catch a glimpse of Thirumavalavan. As he arrived, several cadres breached police barricades and tried to enter the campus, leading to scuffles with police personnel.Later, as the event drew to a close and Thirumavalavan prepared to depart, party cadres massed inside the campus once again. When police asked them to leave, an argument broke out, prompting police to resort to mild force to push back and clear them from the premises.Earlier, while addressing the students, Thirumavalavan highlighted the historic transformation in women’s rights and education in the country. He emphasised that social justice has dismantled oppressive past traditions and empowered women to lead across all sectors. He said Education is not merely a tool for securing employment, but a vital foundation for developing individual personality, capability, and leadership qualities.He pointed out that women are consistently outperforming men in academic activities and making remarkable strides across all professional domains, signalling a future where the nation will be led by women. He expressed optimism that a major political space will open up for women with 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies set to become mandatory after 2029.He appealed to young women to cultivate strong leadership traits and administrative skills to step into these roles. He encouraged them to become compassionate and capable leaders, extending beyond political parties to family governance and social guidance.
