INDIA has always taken pride in its army, known worldwide for its discipline, dedication, and bravery. The Indian Army's legacy is one of integrity and unity, and it is this foundation that has inspired generations and upheld national security. Its commitment to secularism, communal harmony, and humanity raises hopes for a bright future. However, under the current BJP-led central government, this proud legacy is being jeopardised.

There are growing concerns that communal and ideological influences are being insidiously introduced into military institutions. A recent example is Minister Vijay Shah’s disparaging remarks about Colonel Sofia Qureshi, which went unchallenged by the BJP leadership. Such silence speaks volumes and raises red flags about the direction in which the army is being nudged.

THE SAINIK SCHOOL

CONTROVERSY

Sainik Schools, run by the Ministry of Defence, have played a crucial role in preparing students for careers in the armed forces. One such school is located in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. In 2020, the central government announced plans to open 100 new Sainik Schools under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. These schools are allocated through the Sainik School Society under the Ministry of Defence.

In Madhya Pradesh, five such schools have been set up in Mandsaur, Neemuch, Khargone, Katni, and Narmadapuram. All of them have been handed over to organisations affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). These institutions receive substantial government grants – upto 50 per cent of student fees or Rs 40,000 per student – from the Ministry of Defence.

The concern is not merely financial. It lies in the ideological agenda of the RSS, known for promoting a narrow, sectarian worldview. Experiences from institutions like Saraswati Shishu Mandirs reveal how young, impressionable minds are systematically exposed to a communal narrative. With such groups now managing Sainik Schools, there is a real danger that this mindset could infiltrate the Indian Army in the future, thereby eroding its secular and democratic character.

Nationwide, 61 Sainik Schools have been established under the PPP model, and an alarming 70 per cent are being operated by RSS-affiliated or BJP-aligned entities. This trend is deeply concerning for a country that values a politically neutral and secular military force.

THE NAMING CONTROVERSY

IN GOTEGAON

Adding to these concerns is the plan to inaugurate the sixth Sainik School in Madhya Pradesh, in Gotegaon (Narsinghpur district), by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Disturbingly, this school is being named after Maninagendra Singh, a controversial figure with a criminal record.

Maninagendra Singh, the nephew of BJP leader and current Panchayat Minister Prahlad Patel and son of former MLA Jaleem Singh Patel, had a deeply checkered history: In 2021, he was convicted in a criminal case and sentenced to one year in jail; in 2023, he was arrested for the 2019 assault of a dalit and remained in jail for 15 days; his wife, Neetu Singh, filed cases against him for domestic abuse, dowry harassment, and drug abuse. He died under suspicious circumstances in 2023.

It is customary to name public institutions after individuals who have significantly contributed to the nation's progress in various spheres. Sainik Schools, in particular, should reflect the highest moral and ethical standards. Naming such an institution after someone with such a background sends a dangerous message and undermines the values the army stands for.

A CALL FOR ACTION

This is not just a state-level concern – it is a national issue that touches the core of our democracy and military ethos. CPI(M) strongly opposes the naming of the Sainik School in Gotegaon after Maninagendra Singh. We demand that all Sainik Schools be brought back under direct government administration and that the allocations to RSS and BJP-linked organisations be revoked.

Further, we call for the immediate dismissal of Minister Vijay Shah for his divisive remarks against Colonel Sofia Qureshi. His continued presence in the cabinet is untenable and signals tacit approval of the communalisation of our armed forces.

India cannot afford to let its military institutions become ideological battlegrounds. The secular and inclusive spirit of the Indian Army must be preserved at all costs.