One Killing Too Many In The Name Of Religious Diversity

A 25-year-old man named Sheikh Abdul Hafiz was killed in the name of promoting religious diversity. Hafiz was a representative of the 'School Thik Karo' campaign, which aimed to bring attention to the inadequate conditions in government schools. He had visited a local primary school in Karisunda to inspect the amenities provided for students.

Hafiz's father, Sheikh Mohammad Mafik, was subsequently attacked at their home, resulting in his death on August 15. Eight individuals have been arrested, including a BJP leader. This senseless act of violence highlights the vulnerability faced by those who strive to improve the state of education in India. The government has been closing down schools at an alarming rate, with over 94,000 schools closed in the past decade, leading to a significant decline in enrollment.

Furthermore, the quality of education remains poor, with many schools lacking basic facilities such as electricity, clean water, and functioning toilets. The situation is particularly dire in certain states, such as Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttarakhand, and Chhattisgarh. Despite these challenges, some states have made progress, such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Himachal Pradesh, where early recognition of the importance of elementary education has led to better social indicators.

Activists have documented the dire state of education in India, with a survey conducted by nearly 100 volunteers indicating that only 25% of third-grade students could read a few words. Hafiz's family declined government compensation in favor of naming a school after his father, demonstrating his desire for lasting change. The incident raises questions about the priorities of political leaders and the need for a more equitable approach to education reform.