The Kerala High Court on August 13 sought the state government’s response regarding the suspension of teacher Guruprasad from Pallathadukka in Kasaragod’s Kumbla area. He prepared the question paper for a Freedom Quiz and was suspended on August 9 after a question asked students to identify the freedom fighter with the longest jail term under British rule, listing Veer Savarkar among the options. The court questioned whether suspension was justified solely for an allegedly incorrect question and asked for the actual grounds. It was hearing Guruprasad’s petition challenging the action, with the next hearing set for August 17. The quiz targeted lower primary students in three sub-education districts. Protests by DYFI and MSF followed, prompting the general education minister to seek an explanation from the district education officer. The minister stated the event was not officially sanctioned. The department then suspended the teacher and initiated disciplinary proceedings. BJP leaders condemned the move as unjust and announced support for the teacher. Protests occurred in Kasaragod, with allegations of police action against demonstrators. The controversy has highlighted political divisions over historical interpretations and departmental appointments.
