kerala-govt-directs-probe-into-christmas-restrictions-in-schools

The Kerala government on Sunday strongly condemned reports that certain private school managements imposed restrictions on Christmas celebrations and refunded fees collected from students for the event. Authorities warned that schools would not be allowed to become “communal laboratories.”

 

Such measures are unheard of in Kerala, which has a high level of democratic consciousness and a long-standing tradition of secularism. “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,” state General Education Minister V Sivankutty told reporters.

 

He underlined that schools are spaces where children learn and grow together across caste and religion, and any attempt to sow divisive ideas among students is unacceptable. Festivals such as Onam, Christmas and Eid have traditionally been celebrated together in state schools, teaching children mutual respect, love, and coexistence.

 

The minister described the decision of some private school managements to cancel celebrations after collecting money, and then refund it, as “cruel” and hurtful to children. He noted that all schools, whether aided or unaided, are bound by the Constitution of India, education rules, and national laws, and have a responsibility to uphold secular values.

 

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Warning of strict action against such practices, Sivankutty said 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 said.

 

He reaffirmed that any move undermining the dignity and tradition of Kerala’s public education sector would not be allowed. Instructions have been given to officials to conduct an urgent inquiry into the matter and submit a report.

 

Sivankutty also addressed complaints received from students and parents regarding compulsory special classes being held during the upcoming Christmas vacation. He emphasised that such classes should not take place during holidays.