Kochi: The Syro Malabar Church Media Commission has raised serious concerns over the recent remarks made by Education Minister V. Sivankutty regarding the headscarf controversy at St. Rita’s School, Palluruthy, questioning whether the minister’s statement amounts to a direct challenge to the authority of the Hon’ble High Court.
The dispute began when a controversy erupted over the wearing of headscarves by a student at the school. Seeking a lawful resolution, the school authorities turned to the judiciary. After carefully considering all aspects, the Hon’ble High Court observed that political interference and the pressure of communal forces were weakening the state’s education system. The court categorically stated that such tendencies were unacceptable and directed that the school be reopened under police protection.
However, the Commission noted with dismay that despite this clear judicial directive, the education minister made public statements contradicting the spirit of the court’s verdict. Sivankutty had remarked that the student should be allowed to attend classes wearing a hijab and alleged a “serious lapse” on the part of the school management comments the Commission described as completely inappropriate and contrary to the rule of law.
The Media Commission strongly asserted that no minister has the authority to advocate practices that contradict the Constitution of India or the judicial orders currently in force. It further pointed out that both the student and her parents had previously agreed, in the presence of public officials and mediators, to abide by the school’s uniform policy.
“Reopening a matter that had been amicably settled, and thereby providing fuel to communal forces attempting to destabilize Christian minority institutions, is deeply irresponsible,” the statement read. The Commission accused the minister’s remarks of inadvertently empowering groups that have, in recent weeks, tried to create tension and communal division in Christian-run educational institutions across Kerala.
The Syro Malabar Media Commission reminded the public that Christian educational institutions are protected minority institutions under the Indian Constitution. It also underlined the historic role of the Christian community in shaping Kerala’s inclusive educational heritage.
“Christians have been contributing to the education of the people of Kerala including those from other faiths since the 15th century,” the Commission recalled. “Our institutions have always upheld equality and dignity, fostering unity among students of all religions.”
Highlighting the legacy of St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, the founder of modern education in Kerala, the Commission noted that the concept of school uniforms was first introduced in Christian institutions based on Chavara’s vision that no child should feel inferior or marked by their attire.
“The uniform was never a symbol of exclusion, but of equality,” the Commission stated. “It represents a commitment to a secular and egalitarian mindset. The provision of uniforms, mid-day meals, and facilities for the underprivileged were all steps toward building a just and compassionate society.”
The Commission reiterated that wearing a school uniform does not deprive anyone of their civil or religious rights. Rather, it helps nurture a sense of unity and shared identity among students, transcending social, religious, and economic divides.
“When ministers and officials take positions that undermine these values for short-term political gains, it weakens the moral and constitutional foundations of our educational system,” the statement warned.
In its closing remarks, the Syro Malabar Church Media Commission urged the government to act responsibly and uphold the dignity of the judiciary, reminding public representatives that the preservation of secular harmony and institutional integrity is a duty, not a political choice.