AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) has defended his controversial remarks on using temple funds to build colleges, saying he made them with students’ welfare in mind. Speaking in Villupuram, he said the HR & CE department may not be able to provide full facilities and suggested the colleges be handed over to the Education Department.

EPS claimed his comments were misunderstood and twisted by the DMK and its allies. He clarified he is not against building colleges, but wants proper support for students. He also cited that the AIADMK had built 66 government colleges during its rule.

The remarks triggered backlash, with students and parents protesting, especially at the Kolathur HR & CE college. Minister P.K. Sekarbabu hit back, saying the HR & CE Act allows running colleges for poor students, and accused EPS of echoing RSS-BJP views.