Congress demands immediate probe into ‘Education Mafia'
In a bold move against the exploitation of parents under the guise of education, Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee's spokesperson, Vivek Tripathi, raised serious allegations against several major private schools, including Narayana School, during a public hearing at the Collector’s office in Bhopal on Tuesday. Tripathi demanded immediate action, calling for a thorough investigation into the practices of these schools.
Tripathi’s complaint detailed that private schools are allegedly pressuring parents to buy uniforms, books, and stationery from select shops at exorbitant prices. These shops, according to Tripathi, lack proper registration and fail to provide GST invoices. He accused the entire system of operating on commissions and tax evasion, transforming education into a mafia-driven business.
Tripathi further demanded that the administration take swift action, urging that an FIR be filed and those responsible be punished, just as it was done in Jabalpur, where action was taken against the education mafia and school operators. He emphasized that this issue was not just about economic exploitation but also a violation of the right to education guaranteed by the Constitution. He argued that the collusion between the schools and shops directly affects parents' finances.
During the public hearing, Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Nidhi Choukse took immediate cognizance of the issue and reprimanded the District Education Officer. She instructed an investigation based on the evidence provided. The administration swiftly assigned the task of investigating the case to SDM Archana Sharma and District Education Officer Narendra Ahirwar. This marks the first time in Bhopal that the administration has openly taken a stand against the education mafia, and it is expected that action against the accused will be taken soon.
Vivek Tripathi warned that if no timely and just action is taken on this matter, Congress will be forced to launch a movement from the streets to the assembly.
