A government primary school principal, Irfana Naqvi, has been suspended after organizing an iftar gathering on March 17, triggering a wave of criticism and debate.
A video of the gathering, which showed several Muslims breaking their fast on school premises, went viral, prompting swift action from the education department. Authorities claimed that Naqvi had not sought prior approval for the event, leading to her suspension and a case being registered against the organizers.
Defending the decision, Shikarpur’s Assistant Basic Shiksha Adhikari (ABSA), Aman Gupta, stated, “No event can be conducted in government schools without permission. Principal Irfana Naqvi violated this rule by organizing the iftar without approval, leading to her suspension.”
However, the move has sparked criticism from opposition parties and activists. A Samajwadi Party leader denounced the action as discriminatory, questioning why similar rules are not enforced for religious events of other communities held in government institutions.
Social media users, activists, and public figures have also condemned the suspension, arguing that it reflects a growing pattern of religious discrimination in Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, right-wing groups have welcomed the decision, reinforcing the ongoing debate on religious freedom and bias in governance.
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