RAIPUR: Former MLA and tribal politician Manish Kunjam launched a sharp attack on the Chhattisgarh government's decision to introduce Sanskrit prayers and mantras in school assemblies, asserting that Adivasis are not Hindus and cannot be forced into Hindu religious traditions through schools.
Kunjam's Allegations
Speaking on Thursday, Kunjam alleged that the move was part of an RSS-driven attempt to impose Hindu religious practices on tribal children. He demanded the immediate withdrawal of the directive requiring students to recite prayers and hymns during school hours, including Saraswati Vandana, Guru Mantra, Bhojan Mantra, Gayatri Mantra, and Shanti Path.
Kunjam argued that Adivasis have distinct religious and cultural traditions that cannot be subsumed within Hindu practices. He cited census records, anthropological studies, and tribal traditions to emphasize that Adivasis are not Hindus. "Imposing Hindu religious practices through government schools is unacceptable," he said.
Impact on Education
The tribal leader also questioned the practical impact of the new schedule, claiming that students are now required to participate in up to ten separate prayer-related activities from morning assembly until dispersal, reducing valuable classroom teaching time. He alleged that the state government is implementing the RSS's ideological agenda under the guise of value-based education.
Government's Stand and Opposition
The Chhattisgarh government has described the initiative as an effort to promote discipline, moral values, and cultural awareness among students. However, the tribal community has warned of a statewide agitation if the order is not withdrawn. The Congress party has also condemned the move, questioning why prayers associated with a particular faith were made mandatory in institutions attended by students from diverse religious backgrounds.
Kunjam's remarks come amid growing tensions over the government's education policies in tribal-dominated regions.
