A recent decision by the West Bengal School Education Department to allocate significant funds for library books in government-sponsored and aided schools has ignited a fierce political controversy across the state. The directive, which includes 19 books authored by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee among the recommended titles, has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition, with the BJP state President Dr. Sukanta Majumder likening the move to an “Act of Hitler.”

Funding Allocation and Procurement Details

The School Education Department has sanctioned a total of Rs. 20.26 crores for the financial year 2024-25. Each of the 2026 eligible schools will receive a grant of Rs. 1 lakh for their libraries. According to a memo dated February 28, 2025 (Memo No.- 533(Sanc)-SED-18099/41/2020-PB SEC-Dept. of SE), these funds are to be used to purchase books from five recommended sets, each valued at approximately Rs. 1 lakh. These sets are organized by district, ensuring a curated selection for different regions across the state.

The notification specifies that the Publishers and Booksellers Guild will coordinate between District Inspectors of Schools and publishers for book delivery. Payments to publishers will be made via A/C payee cheques only after successful delivery. District Inspectors of Schools (DI/S(SE)s) are required to submit consolidated utilization certificates and adhere to all financial norms as per AAFS order no. 77-SED-18015(15)/1/2018-PB SEC-Dept. of SE dated February 25, 2025.

Mamata Banerjee’s Books at the Center of the Storm

The inclusion of 19 books by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the recommended lists has become the primary flashpoint in this political debate. While the notification doesn’t explicitly mandate their purchase, their prominent presence in the curated sets has raised concerns and accusations of promoting personal interests using public funds.

Opposition’s Strong Condemnation

BJP state President Dr. Sukanta Majumder launched a scathing attack against the move, stating, “This act is an Act of Hitler. Hitler made this kind of rule in Germany then; the government could have sent a recommendation list, but the government cannot dictate what a person wants to read or wishes to read.” His comments highlight the opposition’s strong objection to what they perceive as an attempt to influence reading choices in schools and misuse financial grants for political gain.

Ongoing Debate and Unanswered Questions

As the political row intensifies, questions are being raised about the autonomy of school libraries and the criteria used for book selection. This move has ignited a broader debate on the intersection of education, politics, and public funds in West Bengal. The state government has not yet issued a detailed clarification regarding the inclusion of the Chief Minister’s books or responded to the allegations made by the opposition.