Ajmer Dargah Committee Protests Government Order to Rename Historic School
The managing committee of the Ajmer Dargah, known as Anjuman Monia Fakhria Chishtiya Khuddam Khwaja Sahib Syedzadgah, has launched a strong protest against a recent government directive to alter the name of Monia Islamia Senior Secondary School. The committee has formally expressed its opposition by writing to the President of India and the principal secretary of Rajasthan's secondary education department.
Threat of Legal Action Over Name Change Decision
On Thursday, the committee issued a clear ultimatum, stating that if the government does not retract its order, they will pursue legal recourse by approaching the Rajasthan High Court. This firm stance underscores the deep-seated concerns regarding the proposed renaming of the educational institution.
Historical Significance of the School's Name
Syed Sarwar Chishty, secretary of the committee, provided crucial historical context, explaining that the school's name is derived from Moiniddin Chishti, the revered 13th-century Sufi saint who founded the Ajmer Dargah. He emphasized that in 1892, the land where the school stands was generously donated by the minority community specifically for educational purposes.
Chishty highlighted that over the past 133 years, this prestigious school has welcomed students from all communities, fostering education and unity. The name Monia Islamia has become widely recognized throughout Ajmer and beyond, symbolizing a legacy of inclusive learning and cultural heritage.
Government Order Issued Under MLA's Instructions
The controversial order to change the school's name to Govt Senior Secondary School, Station Road, was issued by the secondary education department on February 21. This action was taken following instructions from State Assembly Speaker and Ajmer North MLA Vasudev Devnani, adding a political dimension to the dispute.
The committee's protest reflects broader tensions over cultural identity and historical preservation in educational governance. As the situation develops, stakeholders await the government's response to the committee's demands and potential legal proceedings.
