A controversy erupted in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district after students of a Zilla Parishad (ZP) primary school in Singao Jahangir were made to sweep the premises, carry water crates, and clean classrooms in preparation for a scheduled visit by Education Minister Dada Bhuse. A video of the students engaged in these tasks went viral on social media, drawing sharp criticism from educators and the public alike.
On what was supposed to be the first day of the new academic year, students were reportedly assigned cleaning duties to “welcome” the minister — an act that many have termed disrespectful and unacceptable.
Minister Orders Probe
Education Minister Dada Bhuse responded swiftly, stating, “If this incident is true, it is highly inappropriate. I have ordered an inquiry, and strict action will be taken against those responsible.”
Teachers’ Union Expresses Outrage
The Maharashtra State Primary Teachers Committee condemned the incident, stating, “Maintaining cleanliness in schools is the government’s responsibility. Forcing students to do such labor is a violation of child rights.”
The committee has urged the government to appoint dedicated cleaning staff in all government schools and to allocate separate budgets for maintenance and sanitation.
Political Reactions
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Jayshree Shelke also condemned the act, saying, “Making children perform cleaning tasks for a minister’s visit is shameful. Accountability must be fixed, and strict action must follow.”
Systemic Shortcomings Exposed
The incident has once again highlighted the lack of infrastructure and support staff in rural government schools. Many teachers report that in the absence of sweepers or maintenance workers, cleaning tasks often fall upon staff or students themselves.
Conclusion
Schools should be safe and dignified spaces for learning, not places where children are made to work. The Buldhana incident underscores the urgent need for systemic reform, proper staffing, and a child-centric approach in government schools across Maharashtra.