Kerala Teacher Booked for Onam Hate Remarks
Kerala teacher suspended over divisive Onam remarks.
A shocking controversy has erupted in Kerala’s Thrissur district, where a teacher from Sirajul Uloom English School in Kallumpuram, Kadavallur, identified as Khadeeja, has been booked for alleged hate remarks targeting Onam celebrations. The incident, reported on August 26, 2025, stems from a complaint by the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) Kadavallur North leaders, leading to charges under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for wantonly provoking a riot.
The trouble began when Khadeeja allegedly circulated WhatsApp voice messages claiming that Muslim students’ participation in Onam festivities and rituals amounts to shirk (polytheism). In the audio, she is purportedly heard asserting that Onam, a festival linked to Hinduism, should be avoided by Muslims. This sparked outrage among parents and local organizations, who criticized the remarks as divisive. Protests quickly formed outside the school, with demonstrators demanding accountability.
In response, the school management suspended Khadeeja pending an inquiry, distancing itself from her statements. In an official statement, they clarified that her comments were her “personal opinion” and not reflective of the institution’s stance. The school emphasized its long-standing tradition of celebrating Onam with grandeur, including an onasadya scheduled for August 28, and vowed to continue fostering inclusivity.
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Onam, a vibrant harvest festival celebrated across Kerala with flower carpets, feasts, and boat races, is a symbol of unity transcending religious boundaries. Khadeeja’s remarks have reignited debates about cultural sensitivity and the role of educators in a diverse society. The DYFI has accused her of stoking communal tensions, while police continue their investigation to assess the full context and decide on further action.
The incident has drawn widespread attention, with social media amplifying calls for unity and condemnation of hate speech. Local leaders are urging calm to prevent escalation, but the episode has left the community divided. As the inquiry progresses, all eyes are on the school and authorities to restore harmony and address the underlying issues of religious tolerance in the region.
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