Thiruvananthapuram: The Public Education Department has retracted a contentious circular that called for an investigation into unfounded allegations against Christian employees, accusing them of violating the law by not paying income tax. The government withdrew the circular after Deepika highlighted its issuance in a manner that insulted the Christian community, prompting widespread protests. In a new circular issued yesterday, the Director of Public Education stated that no further action is required regarding the circular issued on the 13th.

The irresponsible and erroneous circular was based on a complaint filed by K. Abdul Kalam from Karanthur, Kozhikode. Questions arose about whether the education department officials lacked the basic understanding that income tax matters fall under the central government's jurisdiction. The involvement of the vigilance department of the general education department in issuing the circular added to the issue's seriousness. The circular was issued without even conducting a preliminary investigation to verify the complaint's basis.

The complaint attached to the circular alleged that Christian employees in government-salaried positions at aided colleges, schools, and hospitals run by Christian churches were flouting the country's existing laws and regulations, including income tax laws, by not paying any income tax. Based on this complaint, the general education department sent the circular to the deputy directors of education for investigation without sufficient inspections. However, following the controversy, the circular issued yesterday did not mention Christian faithful.