Sainik School Allegations Refuted:
The government has debunked reports claiming that command of 62 percent of Sainik Schools has been handed over to RSS affiliates. A claim was made that the government had allocated 62 percent of the new Sainik Schools to individuals affiliated with the RSS and BJP. Following the emergence of the news, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) dismissed the allegations as baseless, clarifying that the new Sainik Schools were not being awarded to organizations based on political alignment or ideology.
What is the Controversy Surrounding Sainik Schools?
Indeed, 'The Reporters' Collective', an online news website, had alleged that the government entrusted new Sainik Schools to individuals connected to the Sangh Parivar, BJP, and their allies. Responding to this, the MoD stated in a release to the press, 'Several publications suggest that new Sainik Schools are being awarded based on political or ideological preferences. These allegations are unfounded.' The MoD emphasized that the selection process for institutions to run new Sainik Schools is rigorous.
What did the Defence Ministry Say?
The MoD explained that 'the planning of new Sainik Schools has been meticulously executed. The selection process for institutions is stringent, with multiple measures to ensure that the selected organizations achieve the goal and devise a robust plan to aid financially disadvantaged but meritorious students. The chosen institution's political or ideological affiliations are not considered.' The MoD also added, 'Attempts to politicize this scheme or spread misinformation are deplorable and misleading.'
How are Institutions Selected to Run Sainik Schools? MoD Explains
The ministry disclosed that over 500 applications were received and vetted. So far, 45 schools have been approved, including both existing and to-be-founded institutions. These approvals are provisional; a School Inspection Committee will conduct annual reviews and continue approval based on their findings. This ensures that the selected schools maintain high standards.
The ministry asserts that a strict evaluation process was followed to vet applicants. Detailing the process, it stated that a School Evaluation Committee, chaired by the District Magistrate and including principals of the existing nearby Sainik or Navodaya schools, was formed. School visits are conducted, and their qualifications are checked against established criteria. The final decision is made by an Approval Committee that includes the Joint Secretary (Sainik School Society) as chair, the Secretary of CBSE, and a renowned educationalist as members.
It is noteworthy that the government has planned to open 100 new Sainik Schools across the country. These schools will be established in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, state governments, and private entities working in education. In October 2021, the Union Cabinet granted approval to associate 100 schools with the Sainik School Society under the Defence Ministry.
