Sat Jan 17 17:27:32 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Congress Accuses BJP of Communalizing Education System in India

The Story:

The Congress party launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led government on January 17, 2026, accusing it of deliberately undermining and communalizing the education system. The allegations centered around the withdrawal of permission for the MBBS course at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME), where a majority of admitted students were Muslim, and the demolition of a school built by a Muslim man in Madhya Pradesh’s Betul district. Party leaders demanded immediate action to rectify these situations, including reopening the medical college and reconstructing the demolished school.

Key Points:

  • The Congress party held a press conference in New Delhi on January 17, 2026, led by Syed Naseer Hussain and Divya Maderna.
  • The National Medical Commission (NMC) revoked the Letter of Permission for SMVDIME due to non-compliance with minimum standards and deficiencies in faculty, clinical material, and infrastructure.
  • The Congress alleges that admissions to SMVDIME were based on NEET scores, resulting in a higher number of Muslim students (42 out of 50) due to regional preferences.
  • The Sangharsh Samiti, backed by the BJP, agitated for the cancellation of admissions and reservation of seats exclusively for students professing faith in Mata Vaishno Devi.
  • A school built by Abdul Naeem in Betul, Madhya Pradesh, was demolished, allegedly based on rumors that it was a madrasa, despite having necessary permissions.
  • The Congress leaders cited other instances, including alleged poisoning of a school water tank in Karnataka’s Belagavi district and disruptions to Christmas celebrations at a school in Assam.

Critical Analysis:

The Congress’s accusations occur within a broader political context where the BJP is perceived to be consolidating its power base, particularly among younger generations, as PM Modi’s recent statements suggest. The allegations of communalization of education may be an attempt by the Congress to counter the BJP’s narrative and appeal to minority communities. The timing of these events, coupled with the BJP’s focus on development and appealing to Gen Z, suggests a deeper ideological struggle for the future direction of the country’s education system and social fabric.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Congress party is actively challenging the BJP’s policies and narratives on education.
  • Religious and communal tensions remain a significant factor in Indian politics.
  • The focus on NEET scores and regional preferences highlights the complex interplay between merit, demographics, and access to education.
  • The “bulldozer culture” allegation raises concerns about due process and the rule of law.
  • The reported incidents in Belagavi and Assam suggest a broader pattern of alleged discrimination.

Impact Analysis:

These events are likely to further polarize the political landscape, potentially impacting upcoming elections and social harmony. The accusations of communalization could erode public trust in educational institutions and government policies. The long-term impact will depend on whether the government addresses the concerns raised by the Congress and takes steps to ensure inclusivity and fairness in the education system. Furthermore, legal challenges related to the demolition in Betul and the closure of SMVDIME could set important precedents for the protection of minority rights and educational standards.

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