India Will Be Destroyed If RSS Takes Control Of Education: Rahul Gandhi

In a recent statement made in New Delhi, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP from Rae Bareli, expressed grave concerns regarding the influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on India’s education system.

Speaking at a protest organized by student organizations affiliated with the INDIA bloc, Gandhi warned that if the RSS were to gain full control over the education sector, it could lead to the destruction of the country. He emphasized that while the constituents of the INDIA bloc may have varying ideologies and policies, they are united in their commitment to safeguarding the education system.

Gandhi articulated his fears about the RSS’s intentions, stating, “One organization wants to destroy the future and the education system of the country. The name of that organization is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.” He pointed out that the gradual encroachment of the RSS into educational institutions poses a significant threat to the future of the nation.

He warned that if the education system continues to fall under the influence of the RSS, it could result in widespread unemployment and ultimately lead to the country’s downfall.

During the protest held at Jantar Mantar, Gandhi urged student organizations to raise awareness among their peers about the growing dominance of the RSS in Indian universities. He claimed that vice-chancellors of universities are increasingly being appointed based on recommendations from the RSS, a trend he believes must be halted. “We have to stop this,” he declared, calling for collective action to protect the integrity of the education system.

Gandhi also took the opportunity to criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his recent remarks in Parliament regarding the Maha Kumbh, suggesting that the Prime Minister should have addressed pressing issues such as unemployment and inflation instead.

He accused the Modi government of neglecting these critical topics, stating, “The prime minister does not say a word about unemployment, inflation, and the education system.” He further alleged that the government’s model is to concentrate resources in the hands of a few industrialists, specifically mentioning Adani and Ambani, while simultaneously transferring control of educational institutions to the RSS.

In his address to the protesters, Gandhi emphasized the importance of unity among student organizations within the INDIA bloc. He acknowledged that while there may be ideological differences, the fight to protect the education system is paramount.

“You are students of the INDIA bloc; there may be some differences in our ideologies and policies, but we can never compromise on the education system of the country. We will fight this fight together and push back the RSS,” he asserted.

This protest is not the first time Gandhi has voiced his concerns regarding educational policies. Just last month, he participated in a demonstration against the draft University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, which he claimed were designed to further the RSS’s agenda. He criticized the draft regulations concerning the appointment of teachers and academic staff in universities and colleges, arguing that they aim to impose a singular narrative of “one history, one tradition, one language” on the diverse fabric of Indian society.

Gandhi’s remarks reflect a broader apprehension among opposition parties regarding the perceived encroachment of the RSS into various sectors, particularly education. As the debate over the National Education Policy and related regulations continues, the opposition remains vigilant, advocating for an education system that is inclusive, diverse, and free from ideological domination.

The call to action from Gandhi and the INDIA bloc underscores the significance of education as a cornerstone of democracy and national development, urging students and citizens alike to remain engaged in the discourse surrounding the future of education in India.