New Delhi – Arvind Kejriwal, AAP supremo and former Delhi Chief Minister, criticized the Delhi government on Tuesday over an order concerning stray dogs. Kejriwal accused the “BJP’s Delhi government” of “insulting teachers and ruining schools” by potentially assigning non-teaching duties. Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood denied these claims, stating teachers were not deployed for dog-related matters and accusing AAP of spreading misinformation.
Political Clash Over School Order
The controversy centers on a Directorate of Education (DoE) directive for schools to appoint nodal officers. These officers manage issues related to stray dogs around educational institutions. This directive complies with a Supreme Court order.
Kejriwal posted on X, questioning the order. He asked, “Will teachers in Delhi’s government schools teach children, or will they count dogs on the streets instead?” He claimed the order revealed the BJP’s priorities, stating education was not a focus for them. Kejriwal contrasted this with his past government’s approach, where teachers were respected, burdens removed, and education prioritized.
He cited sending teachers abroad for training and improving schools under his administration. Kejriwal charged that the current government “is bent on destroying everything.”
Government Denies Teacher Deployment
Education Minister Ashish Sood addressed the media, refuting AAP’s allegations. He stated the DoE only requested schools to appoint nodal officers. This action ensures compliance with a Supreme Court order. Sood clarified that no specific duty had been assigned to teachers regarding stray dogs.
The minister referred to an official clarification issued by the DoE on Monday. This statement categorically affirmed that no directions were given for assigning any stray dog-related work to teachers. Sood alleged AAP leaders spread misinformation on social media, falsely claiming teachers were diverted from academic responsibilities.
AAP MLAs Rebut Minister’s Claims
AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha held a press conference, countering Sood’s statements. Jha challenged Sood’s denial, stating, “The Directorate of Education had released an order asking teachers to be deployed for matters related to stray dogs.” He suggested Sood was either unaware of his department’s actions or deliberately spreading misinformation.
Jha claimed the BJP government struggles to manage Delhi’s education system. He highlighted the legacy of former Education Minister Manish Sisodia, who prioritized teachers’ well-being. Jha contrasted this with the current situation, where teachers face deployment for non-teaching duties.
AAP MLA Kuldeep Kumar echoed Jha’s concerns, stating the BJP is “ruining the education system of Delhi.” Kumar referenced past news about teachers receiving foreign training under the AAP government. He contrasted this with current reports about teachers being deployed to monitor stray dogs. Kumar demanded the BJP government withdraw the controversial order. He also noted similar orders issued in Haryana but affirmed a strong opposition would support teachers in Delhi.
Official Clarification Reiterated
The Directorate of Education directed schools in the national capital to appoint nodal officers for stray dog matters. This action complies with a Supreme Court order. The DoE issued an official statement on Monday, clarifying, “No directions have been issued by the Directorate of Education concerning the assignment of specific duties to teachers.”