Source: The Hindu

http://www.hindu.com/2005/03/09/stories/2005030910520400.htm

On March 8, 2005 The Hindu reported, "Anyone who passes out of a school of religious training can become a priest, the HR & CE Minister, P.C. Ramasamy, said today. He was responding to a question from S. Maheswari (Congress). The member wanted to know if the AIADMK Government, which promoted the participation of women in all spheres of activity, would also encourage them to become priests. The member praised the Chief Minister, Jayalalithaa, for her many initiatives for the uplift of women. When the Chief Minister entered the Assembly hall during question hour, the Speaker, K. Kalimuthu, interrupted a reply by the Health Minister, Thalavai Sundaram, to wish the Chief Minister a long life on the occasion of women's day."