Kerala School Controversy: Students Sing RSS-Linked Song, Probe Ordered
A government-aided school in Thrissur, Kerala, is under scrutiny after a video of students singing “Vande Mataram, Vande Bharatham”—a song often linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)—went viral. The Kerala education department has launched an inquiry, while the school principal insists the children “chose to sing it themselves.”
What Happened? Viral Video Sparks Outrage
The footage, widely shared on social media, shows students enthusiastically performing the patriotic song during a school event. While the song itself is not controversial, its association with the RSS—a right-wing organization—has drawn criticism in Kerala, a state with strong leftist political traditions.
Education Minister V. Sivankutty emphasized that schools must remain “apolitical,” ordering an immediate probe. Meanwhile, the BJP and RSS defended the performance, calling it a celebration of nationalism.
Principal’s Claim: “No External Influence”
The school principal denied allegations of RSS influence, stating:
“The children chose the song independently. There was no pressure from any group.”
However, critics, including the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), allege possible ideological indoctrination by RSS-affiliated staff. “Government schools must not promote political agendas,” an SFI spokesperson said.
Political Fallout: LDF vs. BJP-RSS Clash
The incident has reignited tensions between Kerala’s ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the BJP-RSS.
- LDF: Accuses RSS of pushing a “saffron agenda” in schools.
- BJP: Claims the Left is suppressing patriotism, with state president K. Surendran asking, “Is singing a nationalistic song now a crime?”
- Congress-led UDF: Urges a fair probe but warns against politicizing schools.
Bigger Debate: Are Schools Becoming Ideological Battlegrounds?
This isn’t the first time Kerala’s schools have faced such controversies. Past disputes include:
– RSS-linked morning assemblies.
– Allegations of biased textbook revisions.
The probe’s findings could influence how similar cases are handled, balancing cultural expression with political neutrality.
Conclusion: Who Really Chose the Song?
While the principal maintains the students acted independently, skeptics question whether hidden influences were at play. As Kerala scrutinizes the incident, the outcome may shape the future of ideological debates in classrooms.
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