Education Body Head Takes Charge Of RSS-Linked Organization
The Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas(SSUN) on the other hand is an organization. That positions itself as an advisor. To the government on curriculum reforms. However, it lacks official recognition in this capacity. Notably the SSUN’s past president Dinanath Batra. Has been a prominent RSS ideologue. Its national secretary Atul Kothari. Is an RSS pracharak (full time volunteer). The SSUN has previously advocated. For the introduction of “Vedic mathematics” in schools.
AIU By-Laws Potentially Breached
One of the AIU’s by laws stipulates. That the secretary general cannot be a member. Of or associated with any political party. Or organizations involved in political activities. While the RSS and the SSUN claim to be non-political entities. The RSS’s promotion of a Hindu nationalist agenda. Is widely viewed as a form of political activism.
Another by-law specifies a five-year term for the secretary-general position with the possibility of reappointment through a competitive selection process. However, the AIU’s general council recently approved a five-year “extension” for Mittal whose term concludes in June bypassing the standard reappointment procedure outlined in the by-laws. This move is expected to be ratified at the upcoming annual general meeting.
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Concerns and Lack of Transparency
Celebrated sociologist Andre Beteille expressed apprehension. About this development highlights the potential conflict. Of interest arising from the head. Of a government funded institution. Leading an RSS affiliated organization. Mittal has not yet responded to requests. For comment regarding her new position. And the extension of her term at the AIU.
The AIU president G.D. Sharma has also remained silent on the reasons behind the general council’s decision to grant Mittal an extension. Similarly attempts to reach Atul Kothari for clarification regarding the appointment of the AIU’s secretary-general as the SSUN president resulted in denials of any political involvement by the SSUN or the RSS.
Uncertainties and Potential Implications
The lack of transparency surrounding Mittal’s dual role and the bypassing of established procedures within the AIU raise concerns about potential undue influence from the SSUN or the RSS on educational policies and practices. With the upcoming annual general meeting expected to approve the extension it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and what long-term impact it may have on the autonomy and academic integrity of the AIU.
