The Bihar government's decision to hold training sessions for teachers and annual examinations for students on Holi and Good Friday has sparked backlash from both the ruling BJP and opposition RJD. The decision, implemented by the State Council of Educational Research and Training, has been criticized for disregarding the public holidays of Holi and Good Friday. The governor's office has also called for a change in the exam schedule, adding fuel to the political controversy.
Outrage in Bihar over School Exam and Teacher Training on Holi and Good Friday
The Bihar government's decision to hold teacher training sessions and student exams on Holi and Good Friday has ignited a political firestorm, with criticism pouring in from both the ruling BJP and the opposition RJD.
Background:
In an effort to improve educational standards, the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) announced that teacher training programs for secondary and higher secondary schools would be held on Holi, March 8, and Good Friday, April 7. Additionally, annual examinations for students from classes 9 to 12 would be conducted on these two public holidays.
Criticism and Backlash:
The decision has been met with widespread backlash from educators, parents, and religious leaders. Critics argue that holding exams and training on public holidays disrespects the cultural and religious significance of these days.
The ruling BJP's state president, Sanjay Jaiswal, has condemned the decision, stating that it "hurts the sentiments of Hindus and Christians." The opposition RJD has also joined the chorus of protest, calling the move "insensitive and anti-people."
Moreover, the Bihar Governor, Fagu Chauhan, has intervened in the matter, calling on the SCERT to reconsider its exam schedule. He has stated that the holidays should be observed and not utilized for academic purposes.
Political Controversy:
The decision has further strained the relationship between the BJP-led government and the RJD-led opposition in Bihar. Both parties have been trading barbs and accusations over the issue.
The RJD has alleged that the government's disregard for religious holidays is part of a larger agenda to impose a "Hindutva" ideology on the state. The BJP, on the other hand, has accused the RJD of playing politics and inciting communal tensions.
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