Bihar Model Schools Row: Minister Rebukes Opposition Over 'Saffronisation' Charges

The Bihar government's decision to name its proposed model schools 'Saraswati Gyan Niketan' has sparked a political controversy, with the Opposition accusing the ruling party of saffronising education. In response, Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari has hit back, stating that the Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) 'cannot look beyond the RSS'.

The schools are part of the state's 'Unnat Shiksha–Ujjwal Bhavishya' programme, which aims to develop one model school in each of Bihar's 534 blocks. The name 'Saraswati Gyan Niketan' bears a resemblance to 'Saraswati Vidya Mandir' and 'Saraswati Shishu Mandir', which are run by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's education wing.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Tiwari defended the nomenclature, saying the initiative is not just about creating high-quality infrastructure but also about restoring the Indian knowledge system and promoting cultural nationalism. He argued that the schools would attract meritorious students back to government institutions.

Opposition parties, however, have termed the move an attempt to push a particular ideology in education. They allege that the government is using public funds to promote RSS-linked institutions. Tiwari dismissed these claims, asserting that the government is committed to providing quality education without any ideological bias.

The row highlights the ongoing debate over the role of cultural symbols in public education. While the government maintains that the name reflects India's rich heritage, critics see it as a step towards homogenising educational content. The programme is expected to roll out in phases, with the first set of schools starting construction later this year.

Observers note that the controversy could have electoral implications in a state where education and caste politics often intersect. The BJP-led government in Bihar has been pushing for educational reforms, but the Opposition remains sceptical of its motives.