Nacharam school bars students observing Ayyappa Swamy Deeksha

HYDERABAD: Two students of St Peter’s Model School in Nacharam were denied entry into the school for observing Ayyappa Swamy Deeksha. The students, following the tradition of walking barefoot during the 41-day spiritual observance, were reportedly stopped at the school gates and told that they could not attend classes without footwear.

Their irate parents, who are also observing deeksha, squatted in front of the school and staged a protest denouncing the attitude of the school management in not allowing their children to attend classes.

They were joined by other Ayyappa devotees, who all gathered outside the school to protest against what they called an ‘insensitive’ decision. They demanded an explanation and apology from the school management. They insisted that children practicing their faith should not be penalised or barred from attending classes.

As the crowd grew, police from Nacharam station arrived to calm the situation and mediate between the parents and the school management. Discussions were held to defuse tensions, but the parents said they would continue to push for accountability and respect for their religious beliefs.

The parents have also demanded that the school education department take stern action against the management for hurting the sentiments of the students. The school management has not yet responded to the accusations.