Kochi: The Kerala Catholic Teachers Guild has voiced strong opposition to the Education Department’s decision to schedule the valuation of answer scripts for the Higher Secondary School Improvement Examination on July 3, which coincides with Saint Thomas Day, a major Christian feast commemorating the martyrdom of St. Thomas the Apostle.
In a state executive meeting held in Kochi, the Guild condemned the move as a serious disregard for religious sentiments and minority rights, especially in a state where St. Thomas is venerated as the apostle who brought Christianity to India. The Teachers Guild has resolved to register an official protest with the state’s Education Department, demanding immediate reconsideration of the decision.
The meeting was chaired by Guild State President Tom Mathew, who emphasized that Dukrana Thirunal holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Christian community, particularly for educators and institutions associated with the Church. “Conducting official academic procedures on such a sacred day is not just insensitive it’s unacceptable,” he stated.
Senior office bearers including G. Biju, Robin Mathew, C.A. Johnny, Biju P. Antony, C.J. Antony, Shiny Kuriakose, Subash Mathew, and Felix Joe Joseph also addressed the meeting, echoing concerns about the continued marginalization of Christian observances in the state's public schedule. They noted that while secularism must be upheld, respect for religious festivals of all communities must be ensured in public administration.
The Guild pointed out that Catholic educators, who form a significant part of the state’s academic workforce, would be placed in an ethical and spiritual dilemma if forced to report for official duty on a holy day of obligation. “It’s not about convenience; it’s about conscience,” remarked one of the members.
The Teachers Guild has urged the Department of General Education to reschedule the valuation duties in a manner that honors all religious observances and promotes inclusivity. They also warned that failure to act could result in widespread discontent among teachers, many of whom may be compelled to seek legal redress or abstain from duties on religious grounds.
A formal representation will be submitted this week to the Director of Higher Secondary Education and the Minister for General Education, requesting that July 3 be declared a non-working day for evaluation purposes in respect of Saint Thomas Day.
The Kerala Catholic Teachers Guild reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence while stressing the importance of protecting religious freedom and cultural identity within the educational framework of the state.