‘Education Extortion’
By: Nazim Sayed
In the heart of Jammu, the recent arrest of self-proclaimed education activist Amit Kapoor under section 387 of the Indian Penal Code has a sinister trend of blackmail and extortion within the education sector.
However, what may have seemed an isolated occurrence quickly reveals itself as part of a more complex network, extending its reach into the valley of Kashmir.
At its core lies a chilling truth: these activists, propelled solely by their insatiable greed, exhibit an appalling indifference towards the education of children.
Kapoor’s apprehension raises questions not only about his own activities but also about the credibility of his counterparts in Kashmir, where similar allegations have surfaced against education authorities DSEK, FFRC and private institutions. The startling parallels between the modus operandi of Kapoor and his Kashmiri associates hint at a deeper, more pervasive issue affecting the integrity of education reform efforts across regions.
Both factions, operating under the guise of education advocacy, stand accused of orchestrating protests and leveling baseless allegations to further their ulterior motives. The shared tactics and objectives suggest a coordinated effort, casting doubt on the sincerity of their intentions.
Private schools in Kashmir find themselves embroiled in a familiar narrative of defamation and legal battles, echoing the challenges faced by their counterparts in Jammu. The pervasive atmosphere of fear and uncertainty underscores the urgent need for action to protect the integrity of the education system and safeguard against exploitation.
What is their modus operandi?
Their modus operandi is a calculated scheme designed to exploit the vulnerabilities within the education system for personal gain. These activists meticulously target specific departments and officials, identifying private schools with a reputable standing. Once their targets are selected, they employ a multi-faceted approach to manipulate public opinion and extract illegal gains.
Firstly, they leverage social media platforms to disseminate fake or misleading information, often in the form of carefully crafted videos. These videos are tailored to garner attention and incite outrage among their followers, creating a sense of urgency and injustice.
Through the manipulation of social media algorithms and the cultivation of a dedicated following, they gradually establish themselves as influential voices within the education reform discourse.
As their influence grows, they continue to feed their followers with increasingly misleading content, exploiting their trust and willingness to believe in their cause. By leveraging forums such as parents’ associations and similar bodies, they amplify their message, effectively weaponizing public opinion for personal gain.
Their ultimate objective is to coerce their targets, primarily private schools and government officials, into compliance through the threat of reputational damage and legal action. Victims who resist or seek legal recourse find themselves entangled in a protracted legal battle, during which time their reputations are tarnished irreparably.
In essence, these activists exploit the inherent delays and complexities of the legal system to perpetuate their scheme, knowing full well that by the time justice is served, the damage to their victims’ reputations will already be done.
Their modus operandi hinges on manipulation, deception, and exploitation, all orchestrated with the singular goal of personal enrichment at the expense of others.
As the spotlight intensifies on education activism in both Jammu and Kashmir, the public is left grappling with unsettling questions about the true motives driving these purported advocates of change.
In an era of heightened scrutiny and accountability, uncovering the truth behind the facade of activism becomes imperative to prevent further harm to the education sector and restore trust in the pursuit of genuine reform.
