Is Priyanka Gandhi Right to Slam UP Govt’s School Merger Plan?
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Synopsis
On July 14, Priyanka Gandhi criticized the UP government's school merger initiative, deeming it a threat to the Right to Education. Her statements raise vital concerns about educational accessibility for marginalized communities, igniting a broader debate on the future of public schooling in India.
Key Takeaways
- School mergers could impact marginalized communities.
- Right to Education is at risk with current policies.
- Concerns about increased dropout rates are prevalent.
- Government aims for resource optimization through consolidation.
- Opposition demands transparency in the decision-making process.
Lucknow, 14 July (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament from Wayanad (Kerala), Priyanka Gandhi, has strongly condemned the Uttar Pradesh government’s initiative to merge thousands of government schools, asserting that it constitutes a direct attack on the Right to Education and severely impacts marginalised groups.
In a statement on her official X account, Priyanka Gandhi claimed that the Yogi Adityanath-led government is planning to close down nearly 5,000 schools under the pretext of rationalisation, while teacher organizations caution that the real figure could soar to 27,000.
According to state officials, this move is part of a larger strategy to consolidate schools with low student populations—particularly those with fewer than 50 students—and merge them with nearby institutions to enhance resource efficiency and upgrade infrastructure.
However, critics assert that such consolidation will disproportionately impact children from Dalit, tribal, backward, and minority communities, many of whom depend on local schools to access basic education.
Priyanka Gandhi referenced the legacy of the UPA government's Right to Education Act, which mandated the establishment of schools within close proximity to every village, ensuring that children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds could attend school without logistical challenges.
She raised concerns about how young children, particularly girls, would be expected to travel several kilometers to access distant schools, warning that such a shift could escalate dropout rates and educational exclusion.
“This decision is not merely administrative—it’s ideological,” Priyanka Gandhi stated.
“It undermines the constitutional promise of education for all and threatens to expel thousands of children from classrooms.”
The Uttar Pradesh government has defended its plan, claiming it aims to tackle teacher shortages, underutilised facilities, and declining enrolment figures.
Education officials have instructed district administrators to present merger proposals by mid-November, taking into account transportation and geographical hurdles.
Meanwhile, opposition parties and civil society organizations have begun rallying against this initiative, demanding transparency and a thorough evaluation of its long-term consequences.
This controversy has ignited a broader discussion regarding educational equity, rural accessibility, and the significance of public schooling in fostering social upliftment.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the complexities surrounding the Uttar Pradesh government's school merger plan. While it aims to rationalize education resources, the genuine concern regarding its impact on marginalized communities deserves thorough scrutiny. The ongoing debate highlights the essential need for equitable access to education across all demographics.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern regarding the school merger plan?
The primary concern is that the merger will disproportionately affect marginalized communities, limiting their access to education and potentially increasing dropout rates.
How many schools are potentially affected by the merger?
The Uttar Pradesh government plans to merge nearly 5,000 schools, with estimates suggesting the actual number could be as high as 27,000.
What legislation supports the Right to Education?
The Right to Education Act, established by the UPA government, mandates that schools should be within close proximity to every village to ensure access for all children.
What steps are being taken to address concerns about the merger?
Opposition parties and civil society groups are mobilizing to demand transparency and a reassessment of the long-term impacts of the school merger plan.
What are the government's justifications for the merger?
The government claims the merger aims to address teacher shortages, underutilized infrastructure, and declining enrollment rates.
