Muslim students reportedly accused Hindu teachers at Hadard High School of branding them as terrorists and advising them to go to Pakistan.
KANPUR — A video posted on social media by Punjab Congress Committee Member Sakshi, Banda District Vice President Social Media In-Charge Shadab Ahmed Farooqui, Social Worker Ali Sohrab Kakawani, and Journalist Muhammad Tanveer has triggered a controversy in Kanpur. The footage shows Muslim students accusing Hindu teachers at Hadard High School of branding them as terrorists and advising them to go to Pakistan.
Journalist Mohammad Tanveer alleges that during a Palestine-Israel dialogue at the school, Hindu teachers supported Israel’s actions in Gaza and justified the massacre. When Muslim girls objected to being labeled terrorists, teachers and the principal reportedly threatened expulsion, exam failure, and denial of admission to other schools.
The incident dates back to Saturday, December 9, 2023, during a debate at Huddard High School titled “War,” involving students from classes 6 to 12. Two female students supported the Israel-Hamas conflict, two opposed it, and a total of eleven participated. The debate, which went beyond problem-solving, referenced the Mahabharata war. Some female students objected to mentioning Hamas, and according to Denik Bhaskar, Jaishree Ram slogans were raised against those supporting Hamas.
In a telephonic conversation with Clarion India, respected socio-political activist Muhammad Sulaiman, President of the Indian National League, said about the incident, stating that this appears to be a tactic to garner attention on behalf of the woman. Sulaiman emphasised the youth’s dissatisfaction with the principal’s actions, leading to protests. He criticised the principal’s alleged misbehavior, describing it as deeply regrettable and condemning such a mentality.
Kanpur police reported that families of students raised objections during the debate, leading to their dismissal. Consequently, the school has canceled its Christmas program, declared winter vacation from December 21, and initiated an investigation into students supporting Hamas. Authorities are scrutinising social media handles that may have incited the protest, identifying individuals seen in the video footage alongside the students.
The school environment remains tense, with some female students abstaining from attending classes. As investigations unfold, concerns persist regarding the impact on the school’s atmosphere and the need for a thorough examination to address underlying issues.