Indian schools face protests over religious observance restrictions

Multiple incidents involving school administrations and religious observances have sparked protests across India.

In Hyderabad, tension arose at Sainik School in Champapet after management allegedly prevented Class X students from attending special classes unless they removed Durga Mata malas worn for the Sharad Navratri festival. Parents staged a protest, accusing the school of hurting religious sentiments and jeopardizing academic preparation for upcoming examinations. Following the incident, the school suspended a Telugu teacher, and police intervened to manage the situation.

In Athur, near Tiruchendur, police registered a case against a headmaster following a road blockade by approximately 100 protesters, including parents and members of the Hindu Munnani. The headmaster is accused of forcing students to remove sacred bead chains worn for the Kulasekarapattinam Dasara festival and allegedly assaulting a student who resisted. The headmaster reportedly apologized after police intervention.