RAJOURI DECM 30:-The Islamic Welfare Organisation (IWO) has strongly condemned the suspension of a lecturer by the Education Department, Rajouri, for offering namaz, terming the action arbitrary, unconstitutional, and discriminatory.
In a strongly worded statement, the IWO said that offering prayers is a fundamental religious right guaranteed under the Constitution of India and cannot be classified as professional misconduct, especially when performed during personal time. “Prayer is not a crime,” the organisation asserted.
The IWO also highlighted an apparent double standard by the authorities, pointing to a viral video involving another teacher allegedly engaged in conduct that violates the dignity, decorum, and ethics of the school environment. Despite widespread circulation of the video, no action has reportedly been taken against that individual so far. The organisation said this selective approach raises serious questions about fairness, impartiality, and intent.
Referring to the incident at Chingus, the IWO said the suspension of the lecturer solely for offering namaz reflects a prejudiced and discriminatory mindset, which not only hurts the sentiments of a particular community but also undermines the credibility of the education system. “Justice cannot be selective; the same standards must apply to everyone, irrespective of religion,” the statement read.
The organisation expressed grave concern over what it described as a growing pattern of targeted harassment of Muslim teachers, particularly those teaching Arabic, Urdu, and related subjects. According to the IWO, such actions give rise to apprehensions that the Education Department is toeing a particular ideological line, which could have dangerous consequences for communal harmony and the secular fabric of education.
Holding the Education Department, Rajouri, and the Hon’ble Education Minister Ms. Sakina Ittoo responsible, the IWO demanded the immediate revocation of the suspension order and called for a transparent and impartial inquiry into all cases of alleged misconduct, without fear or favour.
The IWO urged the government to uphold constitutional values of equality, secularism, and religious freedom, and ensure that no individual is victimised for peacefully practising their faith.
