Haryana Khap Body Opposes Curbs on School Inspections

The Sarv Jatiya Kandela Khap has criticised the Haryana government's decision to restrict inspections of government schools by the public and the media, saying the move appears designed to mask shortcomings in the education system.

In a joint statement, Khap president Om Prakash Kandela, spokesperson Jagat Singh Redhu and general secretary Raj Singh Kandela noted that village schools are often built on land donated by residents and with community support. They argued that this gives villagers a legitimate interest in how these institutions are run.

The statement follows remarks by Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda, who said unauthorised entry into government schools would not be permitted. His comments came after activists from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) visited several schools under their 'School Thik Karo' campaign, alleging problems with infrastructure, cleanliness, teacher availability and midday meals.

The khap leaders said restricting inspections reflects an attempt to conceal failures rather than address them. They urged the government to instead focus on improving law and order, creating youth employment opportunities and tackling drug abuse.

Raj Singh Kandela said government schools are public institutions, not private premises where privacy concerns apply. He argued that citizens should be allowed to examine their functioning so deficiencies can be identified and corrected.

The khap has called for the withdrawal of the restrictions, warning that failing to do so could have serious consequences.