Home / Crime and Justice / Fake Books Flood Libraries: Probe Demanded
Fake Books Flood Libraries: Probe Demanded
9 Nov
Summary
- Allegations of 2,000 unauthentic books bought at inflated prices.
- Publishers accused of using online content with fake author names.
- Writers and artists demand inquiry into book procurement irregularities.
A group of writers, academics, and artists has called upon the Tamil Nadu government to launch an investigation into alleged book procurement irregularities at the newly opened Coimbatore Periyar Arivulagam. The signatories allege that approximately 1,800 to 2,000 unauthentic books were purchased at inflated prices.
These books, published by Agal Vilakku and Phoenix Publication, reportedly contain fictitious author names, factual errors, and unauthenticated information, allegedly compiled from online sources. The group demands that the government disclose the names of officials and committee members involved in the selection and approval process.
Concerns have been raised about how these alleged irregularities bypassed the state's Transparent Book Procurement Policy 2024. The signatories emphasize that such practices undermine genuine writers and publishers, potentially depriving students of authentic knowledge and damaging Tamil intellectual discourse.
Former Madras High Court judge Justice D Hariparanthaman is among the notable figures who signed the statement, demanding legal action against responsible parties and the seizure of fake books from libraries.
