Kochi: The parents of a Class VIII student barred from wearing a hijab at St. Rita’s Public School in Palluruthy, Kerala, have decided to transfer her to another institution, saying the controversy has caused her “severe stress.”
The father told PTI that his daughter had made it clear she did not wish to return to the Church-run school after the hijab dispute. “My daughter has been under severe stress after the incident. She clearly said she doesn’t want to return, so we decided to respect her wishes,” he said, adding that the family is in talks with other schools and one has already agreed to admit her.
The school had earlier objected to the girl wearing a hijab, citing its dress code policy. The issue escalated when the student’s parents and others confronted the management on October 10, prompting the school to declare a two-day holiday. Following the uproar, the Kerala High Court directed the police to provide security to the school.
Kerala General Education Minister V. Sivankutty, who has supported the student, described the situation as “surprising and ironic,” pointing out that “a teacher wearing a headscarf” had objected to a student doing the same. He said the government had found “shortcomings” on the part of the school after an inquiry and issued directions for corrective measures.
“The government cannot remain a silent spectator when a child is denied education over a headscarf. The school should have set aside its stubbornness and ensured the child could study in peace,” Sivankutty said.
Meanwhile, Sister Heleena Alby, the school’s principal, said the institution is ready to accept the student back, provided she adheres to school rules. “If our student returns following the rules and conditions, we are ready to provide her education and help her complete her studies,” she told reporters.
Sr. Heleena thanked the Kerala High Court, government officials, and church leaders for their support, emphasizing that the school promotes an “Indian way” of education that blends cultural and traditional values. “We teach our students the traditions of India and Kerala, the importance of humanity, and the need to protect the environment. We teach them to make India ‘Sare Jahan Se Acha,’” she said.
The principal declined to comment further, saying the matter was sub judice. “We respect both the court and the government. Please spread cultural harmony, peace, and love,” she added.
The controversy has drawn sharp political and social attention in Kerala, where the balance between institutional autonomy and individual religious expression continues to stir debate.
