The Rajasthan Education Department’s new academic calendar has sparked controversy by proposing to celebrate the abrogation of Article 370 and the birthday of Hindutva ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar in state schools.

Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was abrogated on August 5, 2019.

Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra criticized the BJP-led state government’s decision, calling it a “shameless” political move. He accused the government of politicizing education and imposing divisive ideologies on students.

The calendar, released on Sunday, also includes observances for Surya Namaskar Diwas, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, Mother’s Day-Father’s Day, and Subhas Chandra Bose Diwas.

Earlier, the primary education department’s calendar had highlighted the Ram temple consecration. School Education Minister Madan Dilawar has previously criticized the historical portrayal of figures like Savarkar and Maharana Pratap, suggesting that past narratives unfairly glorified Mughal emperor Akbar.

Congress spokesperson Swarnim Chaturvedi condemned the new calendar, accusing it of politicizing education and promoting Hindutva. BJP spokesperson Mukesh Pareek defended the calendar, arguing it aims to inspire students through the lives of leaders like Savarkar and Maharana Pratap.

The calendar also promotes student participation in school activities, including “No Bag Day” and national event celebrations like Independence Day and Republic Day.

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