CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke dares Maharashtra govt to file cases against him, says must fix schools

CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR: Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke on Saturday challenged govt to file “not one but 100 cases” against him if exposing poor conditions in zilla parishad schools was a crime, insisting that FIRs would not stop his School Theek Karo (fix the schools) campaign.During visits to zilla parishad schools at Lohgaon and Karanjala in Hingoli taluka, Dipke inspected classrooms, benches, drinking water facilities and material used for preparing mid-day meals.Villagers and social activist Munir Pathan accompanied him and highlighted problems faced by students and staff.Dipke said he has been touring govt schools across Maharashtra to draw attention to inadequate infrastructure and other shortcomings.“Is it a crime to visit schools and point out the problems and lack of facilities there? If it is, file not one but 100 cases against me, but please ensure that the schools are improved,” he said.In a video shared on social media, Dipke alleged that expired spices were being used in mid-day meals served to students.“Expired food items are being used to feed children in govt schools. Would those sitting in power feed the same food to their own children? And if exposing this means FIRs against us, then please go ahead. We won’t stop exposing the truth,” he said.Dipke alleged that many govt schools lacked basic facilities, with insufficient benches and poorly maintained toilets.He also criticised the disparity between public and private education. “It is unfortunate that children of govt officials and elected representatives study in air-conditioned private schools while children from ordinary families are forced to study in classrooms in poor condition,” he said.Referring to ongoing tribal student protests, Dipke urged govt to address their concerns without delay.“Students are the future of the country. Govt should not ignore their issues any further,” he said.Dipke demanded that rural zilla parishad schools be provided infrastructure and amenities comparable to those available in private schools in cities such as Mumbai and Pune.Stay updated with the latest Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar news. Download the TOI App.