Dehradun: A government school in Sultanpur Patti, Uttarakhand, has faced official action after a video showed students reciting an Islamic kalma during morning prayers. The video included Hindu and Muslim children and spread rapidly on social media, triggering protests and administrative scrutiny.
The school principal, Girish Chandra Saini, confirmed the practice continued for over a year. He said the prayer formed part of the daily routine. After objections, the school stopped the practice. The principal accepted the error and said the inclusion of all students in a religious recitation did not suit a mixed classroom. The school has 110 Hindu students and 80 Muslim students.
The district education department issued a notice to the school. Officials stated that guidelines require schools to remain religiously neutral. Forcing children to recite prayers linked to another faith violates these rules. The department has sought an explanation and asked the school to ensure compliance with secular norms.
Members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad protested outside the school. They said the prayer hurt religious sentiments of Hindu students. They demanded strict action against those responsible. Police monitored the protest to prevent tension.
Muslim voices from the area stressed a different concern. They said public schools must protect harmony through neutrality. Community elders said faith based practices belong in homes and places of worship. Schools should focus on education, discipline, and shared civic values.
Education experts pointed out that morning assemblies often include prayers or pledges. They advised schools to adopt non religious messages such as moral readings or the national pledge. Such steps help avoid conflict and protect student rights.
