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👉 Check Today's Deals on Amazon IndiaKerala Minister’s Stance on Christmas Celebrations
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty has raised concerns over reports of private schools in the state blocking Christmas celebrations, asserting that the LDF government will not tolerate “divisive models based on religion and belief, as seen in northern India.”
Call for Secular Values in Education
“Such actions are unheard of in a state like Kerala, known for its 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,” he emphasized.
Allegations Against Certain Schools
The minister’s remarks follow allegations by the CPM mouthpiece ‘Deshabhimani,’ stating that some “Sangh Parivar-run” schools and others with “Hindu management” chose not to hold Christmas programs. Reports indicate that at least one institution collected contributions for the celebrations before reversing their decision.
The Impact on Students
Parents have voiced their frustrations, petitioning the minister against a Thiruvananthapuram school that canceled pre-planned celebrations. Sivankutty criticized the act of collecting money only to cancel afterwards, labeling it “hurtful and cruel” to young minds.
Upholding Constitutional Values
The minister stated that all schools, whether government-aided or otherwise, “have a responsibility to uphold the secular principles enshrined in India’s Constitution.” While he did not name specific institutions, he warned of potential consequences for those attempting to turn schools into places protecting narrow political and communal interests.
Response from RSS Functionaries
In a related comment, an RSS functionary expressed disbelief that any school would prevent children from celebrating a festival. “We are not against any sort of cultural celebration,” he remarked.
Clarification from Hindu-Managed School
Officials from the mentioned “Hindu-managed school” clarified that there was no ban on Christmas celebrations. However, a restriction on cutting cakes exists due to food poisoning concerns.
Government’s Next Steps
“Instructions will be given to the officials concerned to conduct an urgent investigation and submit a report on the matter,” the minister confirmed.
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