Rajasthan: In a move that has sent shockwaves across the country, the Rajasthan BJP government has made it mandatory for all schools in the state to install an idol or photo of Maa Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and learning. The order, issued on Tuesday, also imposes a dress code in schools, raising concerns about religious discrimination and infringement on individual rights.
The decision, announced by Senior Minister Kirodi Lal Meena, comes amidst ongoing national debates about religious practices in educational institutions. Meena, known for his hardline Hindutva views, had earlier sought a ban on hijabs in all government and private schools in Rajasthan. This latest move is seen as an extension of that agenda, prioritizing Hindu symbolism and potentially marginalizing students from other faiths.
While the government claims the Saraswati idol mandate is aimed at promoting cultural values and fostering respect for tradition, critics argue it amounts to forced religious practice in a secular state. They point out that India’s constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion and education, and that imposing such mandates violates these fundamental rights.
The dress code policy further adds to the controversy. Details of the specific dress code are yet to be released, but Meena’s past statements hinting at a saffronization of school uniforms have raised concerns about saffron being imposed as a mandatory color, potentially alienating and stigmatizing students from minority communities.
The move has been met with mixed reactions in Rajasthan. While some sections have welcomed the decision, seeing it as a way to strengthen Hindu identity and values, others have expressed strong reservations. Parents, teachers, and student groups have voiced concerns about the potential for discrimination and the pressure it might put on non-Hindu students.
The national opposition has also criticized the Rajasthan government’s decision. Leaders from various parties have accused the BJP of trying to impose their ideology on educational institutions and undermining the secular fabric of India.
The Saraswati idol mandate and dress code policy are likely to face legal challenges, with several organizations and individuals expected to petition the courts. The controversy is sure to dominate public discourse in the coming days, sparking debates about religious freedom, inclusivity in education, and the role of government in shaping cultural values.
It remains to be seen how the Rajasthan government will address the concerns raised by critics and navigate the legal challenges that lie ahead. The outcome of this controversy will have wider implications for religious practices in educational institutions across India, setting a precedent for other states to follow or reject.
