‘Good initiative’: Kangana Ranaut bats for RSS-run schools in Himachal

Shimla: BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut has backed the establishment of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-run schools in Himachal Pradesh if the BJP returns to power in the Congress-ruled state.

Ranaut's remarks came in the wake of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's proposal to establish at least 1,000 Vidya Bharati institutions across the state. The proposal has drawn criticism from opposition parties.

Speaking to PTI Videos after chairing a meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) in Mandi, Ranaut said the initiative should also be considered in Himachal Pradesh if the BJP forms the government.

"I would like such schemes to be introduced in Himachal Pradesh when our government comes to power in the state. It is a good initiative and should be replicated in Himachal too."

Ranaut described the RSS as a source of national pride and highlighted its role in setting up schools and providing assistance during times of crisis.

She also pointed to educational initiatives associated with the RSS, including Eklavya Model Schools and institutions preparing students for the NEET examination, saying such programmes offer greater opportunities to children in rural and remote areas.

Ranaut hits out at TMC over 'saffronisation' charge

Ranaut's comments came amid a political row in West Bengal over the proposed expansion of Vidya Bharati schools.

The Trinamool Congress has criticised the proposal and raised allegations of the "saffronisation of education".

Responding to the charge, Ranaut accused the TMC of promoting anti-national sentiments and attempting to create divisions in the country for political gain.

She said parties that harbour hatred for the country or engage in conspiracies cannot be expected to take actions in the national interest.

Vidya Bharati plans wider Bengal expansion

Vidya Bharati, the education wing of the RSS, is preparing to significantly expand its school network in West Bengal, officials said.

The organisation plans to establish a presence in all 345 blocks of the state over the next few years.

The proposed expansion has become a point of political contention, with opposition parties questioning the role of the RSS-affiliated organisation in the state's education system.

AAP's Saurabh Bharadwaj questions proposal

Earlier, AAP Delhi chief Saurabh Bharadwaj criticised Adhikari's proposal and questioned how the government could establish schools affiliated with the RSS, which he described as an "unregistered body."

"If a chief minister is saying that the government will open 1,000 schools affiliated with the RSS and that this is the target, then this cannot be the government's objective. The RSS is an unregistered body. How can the government open schools for it? The government should focus on opening government schools. Perhaps he is trying to create a new controversy and make headlines," Bharadwaj told PTI Videos.