Rahul Gandhi slams Centre over CBSE OSM row, says attacks won’t distract from issues

New Delhi | Political Desk

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has launched a sharp attack on the Central government over the ongoing CBSE OSM controversy, accusing it of diverting attention from what he called “serious administrative failures” within India’s education system.

Addressing party workers and later speaking to reporters, Gandhi said that repeated criticism directed at him personally was an attempt to shift focus away from the larger questions surrounding the functioning of Central Board of Secondary Education. He remarked that such “attacks” would not change the facts being raised by the opposition.

“Attacks on me will not absolve the crimes or mistakes being questioned,” Gandhi said, without elaborating on specific allegations. His remarks quickly triggered a political response from ruling party leaders, further intensifying the ongoing verbal exchange between the opposition and the Centre.

Background: What is the CBSE OSM row?

The controversy centres around alleged irregularities linked to the CBSE’s OSM (Open Schooling Module), a framework that allows flexible learning options for students outside the traditional schooling system.

Over the past several weeks, opposition parties have raised concerns about transparency, procedural clarity, and administrative oversight within the system. Questions have also been raised about alleged inconsistencies in evaluation standards and implementation gaps.

While the CBSE has not officially confirmed any major irregularity, the issue has become politically charged, with opposition leaders demanding a detailed inquiry and greater accountability from the education ministry.

The Centre, on its part, has maintained that the system is functioning within regulatory norms and that necessary safeguards are in place. However, critics argue that the lack of clear communication has only deepened suspicion.

Key Political Flashpoint

Rahul Gandhi’s comments are being seen as part of a broader opposition strategy to corner the government on governance-related issues, particularly in education and employment.

According to Congress sources, the party believes that repeated attacks on Gandhi are aimed at “deflecting attention” from unresolved questions being raised in Parliament and public forums.

A senior Congress leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “The focus should be on accountability in institutions like CBSE. Instead, there is a pattern of personal targeting whenever difficult questions are asked.”

On the other hand, ruling party representatives dismissed the allegations, calling them politically motivated. A spokesperson said the opposition was attempting to “manufacture controversy” where none exists.

Political Reactions Intensify

The remarks triggered immediate reactions across the political spectrum.

BJP leaders accused Gandhi of making “irresponsible statements” without presenting evidence. They argued that educational reforms and digital restructuring under CBSE are part of long-term modernization efforts.

Meanwhile, opposition allies backed Gandhi’s stance, calling for a neutral probe into the allegations surrounding the CBSE module system.

In West Bengal, where education and exam-related policies are closely followed, the issue has also drawn attention from state-level political observers. Analysts believe the matter could influence youth sentiment ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.

Public and Academic Concerns

Education experts have urged caution, noting that politicisation of CBSE-related matters could impact students and parents.

A Kolkata-based education analyst said, “CBSE systems affect millions of students across India. Any controversy, whether administrative or political, needs transparent communication. Otherwise, misinformation spreads quickly.”

Parents, particularly in urban and semi-urban regions, have expressed confusion over the OSM framework and its long-term implications for academic certification.

What happens next

The political confrontation is expected to continue in Parliament, where opposition leaders are likely to raise formal questions regarding CBSE’s functioning and oversight mechanisms.

Sources suggest that the education ministry may be asked to issue a detailed clarification or possibly present a status report to address growing concerns.

For now, the issue remains politically sensitive, with both sides holding firm positions. As the debate escalates, the CBSE OSM controversy is likely to remain in the spotlight in the coming days.