Home / Education / Library Books Mired in Errors, Authorship Questions
Library Books Mired in Errors, Authorship Questions
7 Nov
Summary
- Writer Perumal Murugan found errors in 1,800 books at Periyar Arivulagam.
- Books allegedly have factual errors, questionable authors, and inflated prices.
- Minister alleges corruption in procurement under the previous government.
Acclaimed Tamil writer Perumal Murugan has brought attention to alleged inaccuracies within the extensive book collection at Coimbatore's Periyar Arivulagam. While examining the Tamil section, Murugan discovered around 1,800 books published by Agal Vilakku Pathippagam, raising concerns about their authenticity.
Murugan questioned the validity of authors, the surprisingly high pricing of books such as 'Naladiyar Vazhvin Vazhikatti,' and the integrity of the ISBN numbers. The publication incorrectly identifies Naladiyar as a poet, when it is traditionally attributed to Jain ascetics. Further concerns were raised regarding over 100 books from Phoenix Pathippagam.
Adding to the suspicion, both publishing houses reportedly share the same address, and several books bear recent seals. School Education Minister A Rajmohan criticized the identified errors, alleging corruption during procurement under the previous DMK government. The minister confirmed an inquiry has commenced and assured that those found guilty will face justice. Procurement activities reportedly began in November 2025, with a purchase committee meeting on January 24, 2026.
