"Science is the way to progress": Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin after row over spiritual session conducted in school

Chennai: After a row erupted over a spiritual session conducted in a girls higher secondary school in Chennai, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin responded on Friday that 'science is the way to progress'.
A spiritual session was conducted by Mahavishnu Paramporul Foundation (NGO) in the Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Ashok Nagar, Chennai. The video went viral on social media, and DMK supporters questioned the state government and the education department.
DYFI and SFI cadres also protested in Chennai and questioned the Department of Education, on the 'Spiritual Awakening Classes'.
Later, the Chief Minister reacted to the criticism by saying that the textbooks in the state contain the best scientific ideas the students need to know. The Chief Minister also said that the teachers are instrumental in bringing out the best ideas for the students so they can face the challenges and sharpen their knowledge.
"Our high-quality textbooks contain the best scientific ideas that students need to know. The teachers themselves can bring out the best ideas needed to face future challenges with confidence and sharpen the knowledge. Actions will be taken by the School Education Department to provide the necessary innovative training, social education with appropriate departmental experts and scholars." the Chief Minister said in a post on X.
The CM also said that individual progress, ethical living and sound ideas for social development should be inculcated in the hearts of the students. "Individual progress, ethical living and sound ideas for social development should be inculcated in the hearts of students. Over the past three years, I have consistently emphasised the importance of education and the need to develop scientific thinking at numerous events. Science is the way to progress!", the post read.
Following the row, the state education minister Anbil Mahesh inspected the school on Friday and participated in an event on the topic of 'Education-the best weapon to spread equality'.
The state education minister addressed the students and said that they should analyse everything with reasoning.
"Students should focus on studies. Students should think for themselves with their knowledge what is right and what is wrong. Analyse everything with reasoning. All are equal. Education is the only asset which cannot be stolen", he added.
He also said that strict action will be taken against the people responsible. "Strong action will be taken. Following the action, such events will never happen in Tamil Nadu." he said.