The Surat Municipal Corporation’s (SMC) Municipal School Board (MSB), which sparked controversy by allowing a religious organisation to hold a discourse to popularise Lord Ram in civic body-run schools, revoked the contentious permission on December 11, reported Times of India.
On December 2, the Municipal School Board granted permission to the religious organisation Ramdwara, which is located on the Udhna-Magdalla Road in Surat, to popularise the name of Lord Ram and hold discourse in all municipal schools. Rashmi Lad of Ramdwara was granted permission. However, the permission was revoked after objections from Congress leader Aslam Cyclewala.
“I asked SMC officials if they would allow other sects and religious organisations to hold such sessions in municipal schools. The organisation was allowed to hold the session to popularise the name of Ram in 361 municipal schools. It was only after I objected, that they cancelled the permission,” Congress leader Cyclewala told the publication.
Meanwhile, the MSB, Surat issued the following permission – “To popularise the name of Ram in all MSB schools, one day in each school, a 10–15-minute discourse on Ram is being approved. On the school letterhead, the principal must provide feedback (on the discussion). It must be ensured that it does not interfere with school-based educational activities.”
Speaking on the discourse in all municipal schools, Ramdwara’s Rashmi Lad stated that it’s not just about Ram; it’s also a breathing method that helps children become more mentally stable, have better memories, overcome addictions, and generally be healthier. The method has a track record of success and has been employed widely, Ramdwara’s Rashmi Lad added. Due to objections, MSB has requested that they postpone the discourse for the time being. Also, students of different faiths had the option not to participate, and it was not required of them, reports mention.
Additionally, MSB Mehul Patel, the in-charge administrative officer, asserted that a social organisation had organised the sessions, which taught students breathing techniques.
On the other hand, Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud emphasised how social media, rising intolerance within communities, and young people’s short attention spans are dividing societies everywhere, including India, the report added. He reportedly stressed how important it is for society to understand the importance of self-sacrifice for the advancement of those on the margins.
The Chief Justice also talked about the role that public service plays in community development and the limitations of the law in fostering a just society.
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