Kerala's Education Minister, V Sivankutty, issued a stern warning on Sunday to private schools in the state following reports of some institutions blocking Christmas celebrations on their campuses. The minister stated that the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government would not tolerate any divisive models based on religion and belief within the educational system.
Minister's Strong Stance on Secular Culture
The minister expressed his dismay, stating that such actions are unprecedented in Kerala, a state renowned for its robust secular culture. "Our schools are places where children learn and grow together beyond caste and religious thoughts. We won't let them become communal labs," Sivankutty asserted. His comments were prompted by allegations published in the Communist Party of India (Marxist) mouthpiece, 'Deshabhimani'.
The report had accused some schools run by the Sangh Parivar and another with a Hindu management of deciding against holding Christmas programmes. In a particularly concerning instance, at least one school allegedly collected monetary contributions from students for the festival before abruptly reversing its decision and cancelling the celebrations. Sources indicated that a group of parents from a school in Thiruvananthapuram jointly petitioned the minister after a planned celebration was called off.
Upholding Constitutional Values in Education
Minister Sivankutty emphasized the long-standing tradition in Kerala schools of celebrating major festivals like Onam, Christmas, and Eid with equal enthusiasm. He highlighted the pedagogical value of these gatherings, saying, "It is through such gatherings that children learn to love and respect each other." He specifically condemned the act of cancelling after collecting funds, calling it "both hurtful and cruel to young minds."
The minister made it clear that all schools, whether government-aided or private, bear a non-negotiable responsibility to uphold the secular principles embedded in the Indian Constitution. Without naming any specific institute or organisation, he warned of strict administrative action against any entity attempting to transform schools into venues that protect narrow political and communal interests.
Denials and Clarifications from Accused Schools
In response to the allegations, a functionary from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) told PTI that it was implausible for any institute to prevent children from celebrating a festival. "We are not against any sort of cultural celebration," the functionary stated.
Officials from the specific school with Hindu management mentioned in the report also provided a clarification. They denied imposing any ban on Christmas celebrations. An official explained, "But a restriction is imposed on cutting cakes as part of the celebration in view of concerns of any possible food poisoning. Christmas celebrations will be held as such."
Concluding his statement, Minister Sivankutty confirmed that instructions would be issued to the concerned officials to conduct an urgent investigation and submit a detailed report on the matter. This move underscores the state government's commitment to preserving its secular educational environment against perceived communal influences.
