Tue Jul 15 14:13:21 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

Kerala’s General Education Minister V. Sivankutty has criticized Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for his apparent support of “pada puja” (foot worship) ceremonies held in some schools. The minister argues that such practices are unacceptable in educational settings and questioned the Governor’s endorsement of them, especially if conducted under the patronage of the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh), implying it could jeopardize the legality of the schools’ operation.

## News Article:

**Kerala Minister Slams Governor’s “Foot Worship” Endorsement in Schools**

**Kannur, India – July 15, 2025** – General Education Minister of Kerala, V. Sivankutty, today publicly criticized Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for what he perceives as the Governor’s support of “pada puja,” a practice involving the washing and worship of feet, reportedly conducted in some schools across the state.

Speaking in Kannur on Tuesday, Minister Sivankutty stated, “The Governor’s inclination towards foot worship is now evident. If such acts are carried out under RSS patronage, the schools cannot function legally.” He further questioned how Governor Arlekar could “support” making children wash feet, deeming the practice “unacceptable and inappropriate” within an educational environment.

The Minister’s strong condemnation highlights a growing concern regarding the introduction of religious practices into secular institutions. The RSS, a Hindu nationalist organization, has been a subject of political debate in the past, and the minister’s insinuation that their involvement could compromise the legal standing of the schools is likely to escalate the controversy.

The Governor’s office has yet to release an official statement addressing the Minister’s remarks. The incident is expected to fuel further debate surrounding the separation of religion and education in Kerala.

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