Jaipur: BJP leader and Rajasthan Education Minister Madan Dilawar issued an order to the schools, both government-run and private, in the state to observe Babri Masjid demolition day as ‘Shaurya Diwas’. However, the education department withdrew the instruction hours after issuing it, The Indian Express reported.
The Babri Masjid, which was a famous holy site to Muslims and was under dispute with Hindus till the Supreme Court ruled in favour of Hindu parties, was torn down by Sangh Parivar extremists on December 6 1992.
The first order on Saturday, based on the minister's instructions, included guidelines to schools, asking them to organise a series of educational and cultural activities on December 6 to promote “patriotism, nationalism, bravery, cultural pride and national unity” among students and staff.
The directive proposed essay competitions on themes such as Indian cultural pride and the Ram Mandir movement, traditions of valour and sacrifice, and the role of the youth in nation-building, PTI reported.
Schools were asked to organise painting contests on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir and Indian warriors, and display exhibitions on the Ram temple.
But on Sunday, the education department withdrew the order.
The education department issued a statement on this, claiming that the ‘Shaurya Diwas’ instruction was cancelled because all schools in the state are currently conducting exams, which are from December 5 and 6. Therefore no activites can be held in schools during the days and the ‘Shaurya Diwas’ celebrations are postponed.
The education minister defended the decision to celebrate the day and claimed that Lord Ram represents the ideals of Indian culture and the Ram Mandir movement symbolises cultural pride.