Kerala High Court seeks government response on teacher's suspension over Savarkar quiz

The Kerala High Court has sought a response from the state government regarding the suspension of a teacher, Guruprasad Rai K., in Kasaragod. The suspension followed a controversy involving a question in a ‘Social Science Club Freedom Quiz 2026’ held on August 6.

The disputed question asked, “Which freedom fighter received the maximum punishment from the Britishers?”, with V. D. Savarkar listed as the answer. Following an inquiry by the Deputy Director of Education, the teacher was suspended and faced disciplinary proceedings. The petitioner has challenged these actions, alleging they were directed by General Education Minister N. Shamsudheen and violate the Kerala Education Act.

During the hearing, Justice Viju Abraham questioned whether suspension was an appropriate response to the issue, noting that while disciplinary proceedings could continue, the court questioned if suspension itself should serve as a punishment. The petitioner’s counsel argued that the answer provided is supported by historical records, including Ministry of Culture documentation and a commemorative stamp issued by the Government of India.