Kerala School Accused of Denying Admission to Muslim Students, Headmistress Under Fire

A controversy has erupted in Kerala’s Kollam district after allegations surfaced that a school denied admission to several Muslim children based on their religion.

The complaint has been filed against the headmistress of Dr C.T. Eapen Memorial RHS School in Sasthamkotta. According to the allegations, she told parents and students that Muslim children would not be admitted to the institution.

Parents claim the headmistress stated that “Muslims are not allowed in this school” and objected to children arriving in white traditional attire.

Reports say around 30 students, including children studying at a dars, an Islamic learning centre in Chakkuvalli, had approached the school seeking admission.

The complainants allege that the students were turned away despite efforts by teachers and Parent Teacher Association representatives who supported their admission.

They further claim that complaints submitted to the school management and the District Educational Officer did not lead to any immediate action.

Local media reports indicate that the school currently has only 63 students enrolled from Classes 5 to 10. It is also reported that only one Muslim student is studying in the high school section.

Teachers reportedly had been working to increase student enrolment through outreach activities, as a further drop in numbers could affect teaching positions at the school.

The vice president of the PTA alleged that the children’s religion became the main issue and claimed that even their clothing was objected to.

Some teachers have also alleged that the headmistress had displayed similar behaviour in the past.

Reacting to the allegations, Kerala Education Minister N. Shamsudheen said strict action would be taken if the complaint is found to be genuine after verification.

He stressed that every child has the right to education and that no one can be denied admission on such grounds.