Former Delhi education minister Manish Sisodia emphasises on 'transformative power of education'

NEW DELHI: Former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, in a letter from Tihar Jail, has emphasised the transformative power of education and the need to uplift the underprivileged sections of society. The letter was shared on Twitter by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

In his letter, Sisodia highlighted the urgent necessity to provide equal opportunities and access to education for every child, regardless of their socio-economic background. The former Delhi education minister has also urged society to reflect on the consequences of neglecting the education of the less fortunate. He emphasised that denying education to the impoverished not only perpetuates inequality but also the cycle of hatred and violence. "If every poor person gets a book, then who will spread hatred? If everyone has work in their hands, then who will wield swords on the streets?" he said in the letter written in Hindi.

Emphasising the need for a strong educational foundation and its potential to dismantle barriers, Sisodia asserted that an educated society, built on knowledge and wisdom, is the key to combating divisive ideologies. "If everyone receives a good education, 'WhatsApp University' will shut down. If society stands on the foundation of education and wisdom, then how will anyone be trapped in the illusion of hatred?" he asked.

The senior AAP leader also highlighted the empowerment that education brings, particularly to the marginalised. Underlining the importance of providing tools such as a pen to express thoughts and aspirations, he said, "If every child in society becomes educated, your cunningness and tricks will be questioned. If the power of the pen reaches the poor, then they will express their inner thoughts in the open." He added, "The sound of conch shells is resonating in schools of Delhi and Punjab, awakening the desire for good education across India." Sisodia asserted that providing education to every child, especially the underprivileged, will shake the very foundations of inequality and injustice. "Whether you send us to jail or hang us, this journey will not stop. If every poor child becomes educated, your palace will be left hollow," he added.

Sisodia was arrested by the CBI in connection with the alleged excise policy scam. He is currently in judicial custody.