Tavleen Singh writes: Kudos, cockroaches

On India's 80th Independence Day, political leaders should feel shame, or so suggests Tavleen Singh. Young people have stepped forward to remind them that their priorities should focus on rural schools rather than luxury projects like new parliament buildings and prime minister residences. The Cockroach Janta Party is campaigning to repair rural schools, highlighting the poor conditions in classrooms with crumbling walls, bare floors, and toilets so filthy that they are unsuitable for use, especially by young girls.

The situation is particularly dire in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, made divisive remarks during his speech. Despite Modi's 12 years at the helm, he has failed to improve the state of government schools or address corruption in national examinations. The Cockroach Janta Party's campaign, which uses pictures of dilapidated schools to make their point, is a refreshing reminder that fixing education should be a top priority.

While there are achievements to celebrate, such as reduced poverty and increased literacy, the quality of education in government schools remains abysmal. Children are still seen selling flags on the streets, struggling to afford a hot meal. The Cockroach Janta Party has taken notice and is calling for these children to be in school, not on the streets.

It remains to be seen if India will have younger leaders who prioritize the well-being of its children on its next Independence Day.