Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 28 (UNI) Kerala’s General Education Minister V Sivankutty has asserted that no form of caste or religious discrimination will be tolerated in schools across the State, following a controversy over an audio clip from a teacher at Sirajul Uloom English School, Kallumpuram, Thrissur, allegedly attempting to exclude some students from Onam celebrations.
“Schools are temples of learning where children must be taught to respect and love all religions and castes. Our children are not admitted to schools based on caste or religion, but to gain knowledge and wisdom to contribute to the nation’s progress,” the Minister said.
Emphasising that all festivals, whether Onam, Christmas or Eid, symbolise joy and togetherness, Sivankutty said children must experience every celebration as a moment of happiness. “Teachers must not instill divisions in young minds; their only responsibility is to impart knowledge,” he stressed.
Drawing analogies, the Minister added: “When we undergo treatment, we never ask the religion or caste of the doctor. When we receive blood, we do not check the donor’s background. Likewise, in schools, no kind of discrimination will be allowed.”
He said that the government is treating the incident with utmost seriousness. The Director of General Education has been directed to conduct a thorough inquiry, while the Thrissur Deputy Director of Education has been tasked with submitting a detailed report. Education Department officials will also be present at the school during Friday’s Onam celebrations to ensure inclusivity.
Meanwhile, the school management has informed authorities that two pre-primary teachers have been suspended in connection with the incident.
Kerala Education Minister pledges zero tolerance for caste or religious discrimination in schools
