Thrissur: Kerala Police have filed a case against a school teacher accused of discouraging Muslim students from joining Onam festivities at Siraj Uloom English High School, Kallumpuram. The move followed a complaint lodged by activists of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI).
The teacher, allegedly circulated a voice message urging parents not to allow their children to participate in the celebrations. Police charged her under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with provocation that can lead to rioting.
School authorities acted swiftly after the matter came to light. The management suspended the teacher and clarified that her remarks did not represent the institution. “We are celebrating Onam in all its fervour and the teacher’s opinions are not the institution’s,” said the school manager.
This year, the school scaled down the Onam celebrations. However, the management stressed that the festival was observed in a spirit of unity and inclusivity.
The Muslim community has been watching developments closely. The swift suspension and clarification by the school have been seen as steps to prevent tension and ensure that the matter does not escalate further.
