``In any case, they (Catholic-run schools) are never bothered to listen to the government. Every time we come out with any circular or policies like the Pre-Primary Act, they use their minority status to dismiss us saying we have no control over them. So today, how does it matter if I initiate proceedings to inquire into these incidents? They will not listen to us,'' he told Express Newsline. The wounds of defeat still raw, the minister returns to the stiff and united opposition put up by Catholic schools to the act, which sought to restrict their say in admissions.

Asked to justify thedepartment's passive stance in the attacks, he said, ``Whatever I do, schools do not listen, parents do not care. For instance, when I wanted to have control over schools through the Pre-Primary Act, the schools raised a hue and cry. The parents gave little support. So today, when the government hardly has control over the schools, why should it bother.''

But does the state Education Department's silence not amount to tacit endorsement of the Sainiks' violence (which has been acknowledged by the party's students' wing)? Joshi refused to comment.

Asked whether the department would initiate any inquiry into the Sainiks' attacks, he said the government had received no complaints from the schools targeted. ``Neither have we taken cognisance of complaints from parents against these very schools regarding flouting of admission procedures and their rude behaviour,'' he added.

Meanwhile, he said, the state Home Department is better suited to handle the situation, Joshi added.