Kerala Education Minister V Sivankutty on October 15 took a firm stance on the ongoing hijab controversy in schools, emphasizing that children’s constitutional rights must never be compromised. Addressing the issue, he called for amicable resolutions at the school level while underscoring the government’s readiness to intervene if necessary.

Speaking on the recent incident at St. Rita’s School in Ernakulam, where a student was reportedly barred from entering the classroom over uniform regulations, Sivankutty said, “The action taken by the school authorities was unconstitutional.

The Deputy Director of Ernakulam investigated the matter and confirmed that the school management committed a serious mistake. Based on this, the government has issued clear directives. The child’s rights cannot be denied.”

The minister urged the school management to design an appropriate headscarf that aligns with the school uniform to resolve the dispute. “If these instructions are not followed, the government will take strict action. This is Kerala,” he warned.

Sivankutty also cautioned against attempts by certain groups to exploit such incidents to create communal divisions. “The government’s stand is clear. We will act strictly in accordance with the rights enshrined in the Constitution and relevant court rulings. If a consensus is reached at the school level, that is a welcome development,” he added.

The remarks follow reports that a Catholic school had been closed for two days amid the controversy, with the minister reiterating that adherence to uniform-compatible headscarves remains the solution to prevent further disruption.