Rajasthan school directive on Modi birthday celebration draws political fire

An administrative directive from Rajasthan has sparked controversy after state authorities asked schools and educational institutions to organize events marking Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, drawing sharp criticism from the opposition.

Congress leader Tika Ram Jully challenged the rationale behind involving government departments and educational bodies in the celebration, questioning whether such partisan engagement was an appropriate use of state resources and institutional machinery.

The order has become the latest flashpoint in the ongoing political debate over the use of government institutions for events tied to ruling party figures. Opposition parties have consistently raised concerns about the blurring of lines between administrative and political activities at the state level.

Such directives have previously drawn scrutiny from educational watchdogs and civil society groups who argue that schools should maintain political neutrality and focus on academic pursuits rather than state-sponsored celebrations of political figures.

The Rajasthan government has not yet issued a formal response to the criticism surrounding the directive.