Kerala school owner sparks controversy over remarks to students

Raju Davis, the owner of Dr Raju Davis International and Sainik School in Mala, Thrissur, Kerala, has sparked significant controversy after sending a voice message to a parents’ WhatsApp group regarding students who missed Independence Day celebrations.

In the message, Davis stated that those who stayed home instead of attending the national celebration “do not deserve to live here” and suggested they “go to some other country like Pakistan.” He also threatened that absentees would be barred from entering their classrooms for one period and would be required to provide a formal explanation to him in person.

The remarks have drawn backlash from parents and organizations, including a protest march by the Student Federation of India (SFI). A police complaint has reportedly been filed by the president of the Fraternity Movement in Thrissur.

Davis has defended his comments, clarifying that his remarks were not communal but driven by patriotism, noting that he specifically mentioned Pakistan because he considers it an “enemy country for India.” He maintained that his intention was to ensure students understood the significance of the freedom struggle.