Kangana backs RSS schools in Himachal if BJP returns to power

Kangana Ranaut has backed the establishment of RSS-run schools in Himachal Pradesh if the BJP comes to power in the state. Her comments followed West Bengal's proposal for 1,000 Vidya Bharati institutions and criticism from opposition parties

Shimla:` Actor and BJP MP from Mandi Lok Sabha seat Kangana Ranaut has backed the establishment of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-run schools in Himachal Pradesh if the BJP comes to power in the state, which is currently governed by the Congress.

Her comments came after West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s recent proposal to establish at least 1,000 Vidya Bharati institutions across the state, which drew criticism from opposition parties.

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Speaking to PTI Videos after chairing a meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, Ranaut expressed her support for the initiative.

“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,” she said.

Ranaut described the RSS as a source of national pride, highlighting that the organisation has established numerous schools and consistently served the nation during times of crisis.

She emphasised that schools and educational initiatives run by the RSS, including Eklavya Model Schools and those preparing students for the NEET examination, provide better opportunities for children in rural and remote areas.

Responding to the Trinamool Congress’ (TMC) allegations of “saffronisation of education” in West Bengal following the announcement, Ranaut accused the party of promoting anti-national sentiments and attempting to create divisions in the country for political gain.

She asserted that one cannot expect actions in the national interest from parties that harbour hatred for the country or participate in conspiracies.

The education wing of the RSS, Vidya Bharati, is preparing for a major expansion of its school network in West Bengal, with plans to establish a presence in all 345 blocks of the state over the next few years, officials said.

Earlier, AAP Delhi chief Saurabh Bharadwaj criticised Adhikari’s statement, questioning how the government could open 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.