In Kozhikode, disciplinary action has been initiated against T K Ashraf, a teacher at PKMUP School, Edathanattukara, and general secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organisation, after he publicly opposed the introduction of Zumba dance classes in schools. The move follows directives from the general education department, with the Palakkad DDE ordering his suspension within 24 hours, citing Facebook posts that were critical of the state government.
In a June 26 post, Ashraf distanced himself from the Zumba directive, saying his son would not participate and expressing concern over students “dancing in skimpy clothes” in mixed-gender settings. While acknowledging his conservative stance, he stressed his right as a parent and educator to question the initiative. A follow-up post criticized the lack of public discussion before the programme’s rollout.
Ashraf’s comments were deemed “defamatory” and in violation of professional conduct. In response, the Wisdom Islamic Organisation condemned the disciplinary move, calling it an attempt to muzzle educators expressing traditional values.
Meanwhile, Minister Saji Cherian, in Alappuzha, dismissed the backlash against Zumba as politically and communally motivated. He accused opposition groups and Casa of promoting divisive narratives with RSS support, linking the controversy to broader attempts to stir communal unrest, including the uproar over the film Janaki vs State of Kerala.
The incident has sparked debate over freedom of expression, cultural conservatism, and government overreach in education.