Wed Oct 15 04:56:06 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Kerala’s General Education Minister V Sivankutty has condemned the actions of St. Rita’s Public School in Kochi for violating a student’s constitutional rights by denying her entry to class for wearing a hijab. An inquiry revealed serious lapses by the school management. While the school can set uniform guidelines, it cannot infringe on students’ religious freedoms. The government has demanded an explanation from the school, warning of potential action. The issue sparked social tensions, leading to the school’s temporary closure and police protection. While local representatives mediated a settlement, the government maintains its stance on protecting constitutional rights.

**News Article:**

**Kerala Government Condemns School for Hijab Ban, Cites Constitutional Violation**

**Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – October 15, 2025** – The Kerala government has taken a firm stance against St. Rita’s Public School in Palluruthy, Kochi, accusing the institution of violating a student’s constitutional rights by preventing her from attending class while wearing a hijab.

General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced on Wednesday that the government would not tolerate schools becoming “religious flashpoints” and emphasized the importance of upholding both freedom of religion and freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

The controversy arose after a student was reportedly barred from her class and made to stand outside for wearing a headscarf, deemed a violation of the school’s dress code.

Minister Sivankutty stated that the Deputy Director of Education, Ernakulam, Subin Paul, tasked the District Education Officer with conducting an inquiry. The subsequent report, submitted on Wednesday, revealed “serious lapses” on the part of the school management.

“The school can decide the design and color of its students’ uniform,” Minister Sivankutty clarified, “However, it has no right to infringe on the students’ constitutional rights.”

The government has demanded an immediate explanation from St. Rita’s Public School, warning that further action will be determined based on their response.

The incident ignited social tensions, leading to the school’s closure for two days and requiring police protection. Local elected officials, including MP Hibi Eden, intervened to mediate a settlement between the school, the student’s family, and the PTA. While Minister Sivankutty welcomed the efforts of these representatives, he emphasized that the government remains committed to its investigation and ensuring the protection of constitutional rights within the state’s educational institutions.

“The government will not allow any elements to create social friction in schools or Kerala society at large,” Minister Sivankutty concluded. The incident raises critical questions about the balance between institutional regulations and individual religious freedoms within the education system.

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