Kangana Ranaut Advocates for RSS-Run Educational Institutions in Himachal Pradesh

In a fresh political debate in Himachal Pradesh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut has called for the establishment of schools run by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) across the hill state. Speaking about educational reforms and ideological orientation, the Mandi parliamentarian endorsed RSS-administered educational frameworks as a positive initiative, expressing confidence that such institutions would be encouraged once the BJP returns to power in Himachal Pradesh.

Highlighting the importance of value-based education, Ranaut emphasized that schools associated with the RSS play a pivotal role in nurturing discipline, cultural pride, and nationalistic values among young learners. She noted that these educational facilities combine traditional Indian values with contemporary academic learning, providing students with a holistic foundation that prepares them for modern challenges while keeping them rooted in indigenous heritage.

Focus on Value-Based Education and Cultural Heritage

During her address, Kangana Ranaut praised the educational philosophy of institutions associated with the RSS, particularly those falling under the umbrella of Vidya Bharati Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Sansthan. Vidya Bharati, the educational wing of the RSS, manages thousands of schools, commonly referred to as Saraswati Shishu Mandirs or Vidya Mandirs, across various states in India.

Ranaut pointed out that these schools place a strong emphasis on character building, moral science, physical fitness through yoga, and a deep understanding of Indian history and traditions. She argued that implementing similar educational frameworks across Himachal Pradesh would greatly benefit the youth by fostering a sense of civic duty and pride in regional and national culture.

Political Context and Opposition Reactions

The comments by the actor-turned-politician come amidst an ongoing political debate between the ruling Congress party and the opposition BJP in Himachal Pradesh. Currently, the state is governed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's Congress administration. Ranaut's statement has sparked sharp reactions from opposition leaders and civil society groups, who caution against bringing political affiliations into the public schooling ecosystem.

Opposition critics argue that government-supported educational frameworks must remain secular, inclusive, and strictly focused on scientific temperament, critical thinking, and modern technical skills. Opponents contend that promoting schools affiliated with specific socio-political organizations could lead to ideological polarization within educational institutions.

Kangana Ranaut's Political Trajectory

Kangana Ranaut, who won the Mandi Lok Sabha seat in the 2024 general elections on a BJP ticket, has frequently made headlines for her unreserved positions on political, social, and cultural issues. Since taking office as a parliamentarian, she has actively advocated for infrastructure development, cultural preservation, and educational improvements in her constituency and across Himachal Pradesh.

Her endorsement of RSS-affiliated schooling aligns with the broader ideology of the BJP, which has historically supported value-based learning and cultural revivalism in national education policies. As political rhetoric intensifies ahead of upcoming local and state debates, the discussion surrounding RSS-run schools is expected to remain a major point of discussion between rival political parties in the state.