School timings changed for fasting Muslim students ; School meals delayed for tiny tots

Malappuram:  The festive season of Ramzan is undoubtedly the time that ushers in the most controversial moments, going against the very ethos of national fabric. Having unofficially declared the northern part of Kerala as an Islamic territory, those donning separatist mindset had, in the last few years, brought a halt to the serving of lunch in schools, during the fasting season of Ramzan. However, following protests, serving of lunch was restored in around 80% of schools in Malappuram, but with a mean difference.

Sources state that lunch is being served, but not at the usual meal time. The breach is being seen in almost all schools, including government schools. A typical example is the government high school in Chaliyapuram government high school in Kondotty Sub District, where school timings are from 10.30 am to 4.00 pm. However, timings have changed to 9.00 am to 2.00 pm during the season of Ramzan. And lunch is served when classes get over. Muslim children leave for home and those of other religions stay back for food. This case of extremism has affected children badly, especially tiny tots, who are served food this late.

Local state that children, in order to reach class at 9.00 am, have to leave from home by 8.00 am. There are only minuscule breaks in between. And finally hen lunch is served after long anxious wait food is given only in smattering quantity. Children or tutors have not yet raised any complaint owing to severe restrictions imposed by management. Malappuram now stands as an embodiment of Islamic will being compulsorily and forcibly imposed on people following other faiths.