The Kerala Education Department has introduced Zumba sessions in government schools as part of its anti-drug campaign aimed at improving students’ mental and physical health. A video of students from Thanbeehul Islam Higher Secondary School in Kasaragod participating in a Zumba session went viral after Education Minister V. Sivankutty shared it on his official Facebook page. The video showed students performing Zumba in their school uniforms, highlighting the government’s initiative to engage children in healthy activities.
Muslim Organizations Oppose, Cite Moral and Religious Concerns
Several Muslim
organizations have strongly objected to the initiative, alleging it violates Islamic moral values. TK Ashraf, General Secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organization, publicly stated on Facebook that he disapproves of the program and will not allow his son to participate. Nasar Faizi Koodathayi, a prominent leader from the influential Muslim body Samastha, described the program as an infringement on students’ personal freedom and an attempt to “enforce vulgarity.” He claimed the government is “forcing children to dance in minimal clothing,” which he said is against the fundamental rights of students whose moral values oppose such practices.
Education Minister Defends the Program
In response, Education Minister V. Sivankutty firmly defended the program, calling the objections more toxic than drug abuse itself. He clarified that no student is being asked to wear inappropriate clothing, and all performances are taking place in school uniforms. He stressed the importance of allowing children to play, laugh, and grow up happy and healthy, and said that such initiatives are part of a holistic educational approach.
Participation Mandatory Under RTE Act
The minister also pointed out that, under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, students are required to participate in government-mandated educational activities, and parents do not have the option to opt their children out of such programs.
