Delhi Education Minister Condemns Dilapidated School as 'Monument of Corruption'
Delhi's Education Minister, Atishi, conducted a surprise inspection of a severely dilapidated school building in the capital, delivering a scathing critique of the state of educational infrastructure. During her visit, she described the crumbling structure as a 'monument of corruption', pointing to long-standing neglect and mismanagement that have compromised student safety and learning environments.
Inspection Reveals Alarming Conditions
The inspection uncovered numerous hazardous conditions within the school premises. Cracked walls, leaking roofs, and broken furniture were among the visible signs of decay, raising serious concerns about the well-being of students and staff. Atishi emphasized that such dilapidation is not merely a result of natural wear and tear but stems from systemic failures and alleged corruption in maintenance and fund allocation.
Systemic Failures Highlighted
In her remarks, the minister highlighted how the dilapidated state of the school reflects broader issues in Delhi's education system. She accused previous administrations and contractors of misusing funds intended for repairs and upgrades, leading to this dire situation. The school, she noted, serves as a stark example of how corruption can directly impact public services, particularly in critical sectors like education.
Call for Immediate Action and Accountability
Atishi called for immediate remedial measures to address the infrastructure deficiencies. She announced plans for a thorough audit of all school buildings in Delhi to identify similar issues and ensure swift repairs. Additionally, she stressed the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of educational funds to prevent such scenarios in the future.
Impact on Students and Community
The dilapidated conditions have reportedly affected student attendance and morale, with parents expressing concerns over safety. The minister's inspection has sparked a broader conversation about the quality of educational facilities in urban areas and the urgent need for investment in school infrastructure to support effective learning outcomes.
Looking Ahead
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining public infrastructure in Delhi. As the education department moves forward with inspections and reforms, stakeholders are hopeful that this will lead to improved conditions and a renewed focus on corruption-free governance in the education sector.
