AAP’s ‘Sikhya Kranti’ Sparks Political Row as Opposition Calls it a “Plaque Scam”

On Monday, AAP Punjab incharge Manish Sisodia used the launch of the ‘Punjab Sikhya Kranti’ campaign to send a strong political message before the 2027 state elections.

At the event in Nawanshahr, where a new block of the School of Eminence was inaugurated, Sisodia praised the AAP government for improving government schools in the last three years. He criticized previous governments for ignoring school education.

However, Opposition parties hit back, calling the campaign a “plaque scam.” They claimed that the AAP is more focused on publicity than real change. Under this 54-day campaign, which started on April 7 and runs till May 31, the Punjab government plans to inaugurate works in over 10,877 schools, costing around ₹20 crore. This includes putting up nearly 25,000 plaques with names of politicians like the CM, Education Minister, MLAs, and MPs — even for small repairs like fixing washrooms or building boundary walls.

Reports say that over 350 schools held inauguration events on Monday, often with multiple plaques in one school. Banners and billboards were set up to highlight AAP’s efforts.

Teachers, however, faced difficulties. Despite promises, many schools didn’t receive any funds for the ceremonies. Teachers had to spend their own money to arrange plaques, tents, and snacks for VIP guests.

The Opposition — including Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and BJP — accused AAP of using education for political gain, especially after its recent loss in Delhi. They mocked the campaign, saying, “nameplates are more than notebooks” and “plaques shine more than the classrooms.”

They also pointed out that upgrading school infrastructure is a regular process, and shouldn’t be turned into a political spectacle.