The Kerala government issued a strong condemnation on Sunday against several private school managements in the state. The action came in response to reports that these schools imposed restrictions on Christmas celebrations and refunded money already collected from students for the festive event.
Minister's Stern Warning Against Communalism
State General Education Minister V Sivankutty, addressing reporters, delivered a clear and forceful message. He stated that schools would not be permitted to function as 'communal laboratories'. The minister emphasized that such actions are shocking in a state like Kerala, which is renowned for its high democratic consciousness and long-standing secular traditions.
'No one will be permitted to introduce the north Indian models that divide people on the basis of religion or belief in Kerala's educational institutions,' Sivankutty declared. He described schools as sacred spaces where children from all backgrounds learn and grow together. Any attempt to plant divisive ideas among students is completely unacceptable, he added.
Upholding Kerala's Tradition of Inclusive Celebrations
The minister highlighted the state's cherished practice of celebrating festivals like Onam, Christmas, and Eid together in schools. This tradition, he noted, plays a crucial role in teaching children mutual respect, love, and the spirit of coexistence from a young age.
He specifically labeled the decision by certain private school managements to cancel celebrations after collecting funds and then refund the money as 'cruel'. This act, he asserted, ultimately hurts the sentiments of the children involved.
Sivankutty reaffirmed that all schools in Kerala, whether government-aided or unaided, are bound by the Constitution of India, the country's education rules, and its laws. They carry the fundamental responsibility to uphold the values of secularism and unity.
Strict Action and Inquiry Ordered
Warning of stringent measures, the minister said that schools would not be allowed to serve narrow political or communal interests. 'Imposing restrictions selectively on the celebrations of any one community amounts to discrimination and will not be tolerated,' he stated firmly.
In a significant administrative move, Sivankutty revealed that he has directed officials to conduct an urgent inquiry into the entire matter and submit a detailed report. He also reaffirmed that any move undermining the dignity and tradition of Kerala's public education sector would be stopped.
In a related development, the minister addressed another grievance. He mentioned receiving complaints about some schools planning to conduct compulsory special classes during the upcoming Christmas vacation. Sivankutty made it clear that such classes should not be held during holidays, respecting the break meant for students and families.
