Kozhikode: Teacher and general secretary of Wisdom Islamic Organisation T K Ashraf has publicly opposed the recommendation to conduct Zumba dance sessions in schools as part of anti-drug campaigns. In a Facebook post, he stated that his son would not take part in the programme and that he is ready to face any action the Education Department may take as a consequence.

Samastha leader Nasar Faizy Koodathayi also criticised the move, saying that promoting Zumba in schools is objectionable.

T K Ashraf wrote that he enrolled his child in a government school with the aim of securing quality education — not to expose him to a culture of "boys and girls dancing together to music wearing revealing clothes”. He added, "Some may view this as progressive. If that is so, I am a conservative in this matter."

He further noted that many others share his dissenting opinion, but are reluctant to speak out due to fear of repercussions. “If we don’t oppose this, we will be forced to surrender to such crises,” he warned.

Ashraf also argued that under the guise of drug prevention, conflict resolution and celebratory fervour, such programmes are likely to alienate students from government schools even further. He urged the government to reconsider its decision.

Echoing this sentiment, Nasar Faizy said it was unacceptable if there is indeed a government directive asking even older students to dance together in minimal clothing. “Instead of improving existing physical training methods, obscenity should not be made mandatory,” he remarked. He said such activities could violate the personal freedom and fundamental rights of students whose moral consciousness does not permit them to display their bodies or dance in mixed groups.