Kerala govt slams cancellation of Christmas celebrations in some private schools

The Kerala government on Sunday strongly condemned the cancellation of Christmas celebrations by certain private school managements, terming the move discriminatory and contrary to the state’s long-standing secular traditions.

General Education Minister V Sivankutty said reports and complaints indicate that some schools cancelled Christmas programmes after collecting money from students and later refunded the amounts, allegedly citing religious objections, pressure from external groups, or claims of maintaining “neutrality” in educational institutions.

Calling such actions “cruel” and hurtful to children, Sivankutty warned that schools would not be allowed to function as “communal laboratories” or serve narrow political or ideological interests. “Imposing restrictions selectively on the celebrations of any one community amounts to discrimination and will not be tolerated,” he told reporters here.

The minister said schools in Kerala have traditionally celebrated festivals such as Onam, Christmas and Eid together, helping children learn values of mutual respect, coexistence and unity beyond caste and religion. Any attempt to introduce divisive practices, including what he described as “north Indian models that divide people on religious lines”, would not be permitted in the state’s educational institutions, he said.

Sivankutty stressed that all schools aided or unaided are bound by the Constitution of India and education laws, and are duty-bound to uphold secular values. He said the decision to cancel celebrations after collecting money appeared to be taken to avoid controversy or under external pressure, and such actions undermine the dignity and inclusive tradition of Kerala’s public education system.

The minister announced that instructions have been issued to officials to conduct an urgent inquiry into the matter and submit a report, warning of strict action against any violations.

He also said the department has received complaints from students and parents about some schools planning compulsory special classes during the upcoming Christmas vacation. Such classes should not be conducted during holidays, he clarified.

Reaffirming the government’s stand, Sivankutty said any move that harms children emotionally or weakens Kerala’s secular and democratic ethos in schools will not be allowed.