Teacher to Face Disciplinary Action for Criticism of Zumba in Kerala Schools

The Education Department has begun disciplinary action against TK Ashraf, a teacher and General Secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organisation, after he publicly criticized Zumba classes introduced in Kerala schools as part of the state's anti-drug campaign.

In a strongly worded note, the Deputy Director of Education, Palakkad, ordered the administration of the school where Ashraf works to act against him within 24 hours. The department blamed a Facebook post by Ashraf, saying that he had insulted the Education Department and the government's efforts. A screenshot of the post was included in the official communication.

Zumba classes were introduced in schools all over Kerala to instill physical fitness as well as a healthy school culture under the state's anti-narcotics campaign. Yet, the move has attracted criticism from conservative circles, especially among Muslim organisations.

Ashraf was among the most outspoken critics. In his Facebook update, he stated, "Children are being taken to schools for quality education and not for a cultural practice where boys and girls mingle and dance. Some may find this progressive; however, I am regressive in this instance." His remarks have since attracted both approval and criticism online.

The Wisdom Islamic Organisation condemned the Education Department's order as an attack on freedom of speech. Issuing a formal statement, the group said, "The notion that gender is a social construct is an open door to sexual anarchy," and said imposing such programmes ignores religious and cultural sentiments.

The row has set off a broader discussion of the boundaries of education's ability to integrate culture and the place of moral values in determining school curricula. The government justifies Zumba as an exercise initiative with a public health mission, but critics say it conflicts with conventional standards.

The Education Department has not yet responded publicly to the outcry.