Kerala Govt Stands Firm on Zumba in Schools, Dismisses Criticism

Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty on Sunday firmly defended the state's decision to introduce Zumba in schools, dismissing criticism from some Muslim religious organisations and warning against giving a communal colour to educational activities.

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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty on Sunday firmly defended the state's decision to introduce Zumba in schools, dismissing criticism from some Muslim religious organisations and warning against giving a communal colour to educational activities.

"Zumba is a nationally recognised sport, with lakhs participating across the country," Sivankutty told reporters.

Referring to the criticism from certain religious groups against the programme, the minister alleged that all those who participate in the sport have been insulted by the derogatory remarks made.

"Those who made such comments should withdraw them and offer a public apology," Sivankutty said.

The Minister was responding to questions by the media amid growing protests from certain religious groups who oppose the inclusion of Zumba in the school curriculum.