Facebook post against Zumba dance: Education Dept to suspend teacher

MALAPPURAM: The General Education Department has initiated action against a teacher who openly expressed opposition to Zumba dance through a social media post. The teacher, T.K. Ashraf, of PKM UP School in Edathanattukara will be suspended from service. The Palakkad Deputy Director of Education has issued a notice to the school manager, instructing them to suspend the teacher and submit a report within 24 hours.

The letter sent by the Education Department to the school manager stated that Ashraf's social media post defamed both the government and the General Education Department. In his post, Ashraf stated that as a teacher, he would not participate in the compulsory implementation of Zumba dance in schools, and added that his son would also not take part in the event. He concluded the post by saying that he was ready to face any action the department may take in response. Ashraf also holds the position of State General Secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organisation.

Meanwhile, the Wisdom Islamic Organisation has come out in protest against the action taken by the Education Department against Ashraf. The organisation alleged that the action is part of an attempt to silence teachers who express responsible opinions. They stated that this is a struggle for the sake of future generations and declared that the fight will continue until victory is achieved.