The Congress party has accused the BJP-RSS of substantially undermining and corrupting the education system in India. On Sunday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi participated in an outreach programme titled ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ in Indore, where he expressed his solidarity with students advocating for accountability. He stated that a flawed “system” has taken control of the country’s education sector, discouraging students from posing questions.

During his address, Gandhi noted that the prevailing system appears to favour the propagation of a narrative that demands blind allegiance, or ‘andhbhakti’, instead of fostering critical thinking among students. This perspective has resonated with many, as students across the nation are reportedly raising their voices in protest against the current state of affairs in education.

The Congress’s general secretary in charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, echoed Gandhi’s sentiments, claiming that the BJP-RSS has seized control over various sectors, including education, politics, and the economy, leaving the education system weakened and compromised. He highlighted the system’s fear of inquisitive students who demand transparency and accountability.

Students’ Challenge to the Established Order

Gandhi elaborated that the reason for the system’s apprehension towards students is their inherent curiosity and willingness to interrogate authority. He stated that students strive to comprehend how institutions function, and seek clarity regarding recruitment processes, examinations, and job opportunities. This critical engagement is seen as a threat to the established order, which prefers supporters who accept narratives without question.

In his remarks, Gandhi specifically mentioned influential figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, accusing them of maintaining control over the political, institutional, and economic realms. He further claimed that prominent industrialists like Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani are part of this overarching system, which aims to stifle dissent and discussion among young people.

Gandhi’s engagement with youth comes in the context of other political activities in the region, including a recent interaction held by Mohan Bhagwat, which involved around 1,700 young participants at the ‘Yuva Dharma Sansad’ in Ujjain. This gathering took place shortly before BJP president Nitin Nabin’s visit to Indore, wherein he launched a government initiative. Observers suggest that Nabin’s visit was a strategic response aimed at countering the impact of Gandhi’s outreach efforts.

The Echo of Student Voices Across the Nation

During the interaction event, Gandhi asserted that the youth’s questions and demands are crucial in challenging the status quo. He reiterated that the education system’s integrity has been compromised, rendering it ineffective in inspiring and guiding students. The Congress party’s focus on student engagement and accountability has resonated widely, leading to a rising chorus advocating for educational reform.

Gandhi’s clarification emphasised that the objective is to empower students to question and actively engage with the educational framework, rather than submit to a culture of compliance. He signified a shift towards an educational environment that supports curiosity and dialogue, especially in a political landscape fraught with challenges.

The growing unrest among students signals a collective demand for change and reform in educational policies. As these voices become louder, the Congress party appears determined to stand with the youth in addressing their concerns, thereby fostering a climate that encourages questioning and accountability in educational institutions across India.

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