West Bengal to Establish 1,000 RSS-Backed Schools Within a Year, Declares CM Suvendu Adhikari

In a significant announcement, West Bengal’s Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has stated that the state will see the establishment of at least 1,000 schools operated by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s educational wing, Vidya Bharati, within the next year. This initiative aims to enhance educational infrastructure across various regions, as the schools are planned to be set up in every district, municipality, and panchayat in the state.

Speaking at an event commemorating the 74th anniversary of Vidya Bharati in Kolkata, Adhikari emphasized the need for these institutions to foster a more nationalistic curriculum. He indicated that he would hold schools accountable by suggesting that government funding would be withdrawn if they did not adhere to certain mandates, notably the singing of the complete version of the patriotic song ‘Vande Mataram’. The Chief Minister’s remarks reflect a strong push towards integrating nationalistic sentiments within the educational framework.

Adhikari specifically urged Vidya Bharati to focus on setting up more schools in regions such as Murshidabad and South 24 Parganas, claiming that these areas are rife with what he termed ‘anti-national activities’. He has criticized the previous Trinamool Congress government for allegedly corrupting educational institutions and has called on Vidya Bharati to take the lead in promoting a curriculum that aligns with nationalistic values. This move is part of a broader effort by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party to reinforce its ideological framework in the state’s education system.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister cited the vision of Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, advocating for the principles of ‘One Nation, One Constitution, One Flag, One Leader’ to be reflected in the education sector. By tying educational reforms to historical ideologies, Adhikari aims to create a cohesive narrative that resonates with the party’s base and reinforces the BJP’s commitment to national unity through education.

This initiative signals a pivotal shift in West Bengal’s educational landscape, one that may spark significant discussions about the role of ideological influences in schooling and the balance between state-funded education and cultural values. As the state prepares for this vast expansion of RSS-run schools, it will be crucial to observe the reactions from various stakeholders, including parents, educators, and political opposition.

Source: scroll.in