Muslim organisations soften stance on Zumba row, differences of opinion emerge

Time of India

20 hours ago

Kozhikode: Some Muslim organizations which had stringently opposed the introduction of Zumba in schools appear to be softening their stance now even as differences of opinion have emerged among other Muslim bodies over the matter.
Kerala Naduvathul Mujahideen (KNM) state president T P Abdulla Koya Madani said on Sunday the controversy was unnecessary and suggested that it was created by those who heard Zumba for the first time now.
Madani said KNM did not support stoking controversy over the issue, especially at the very start of the academic year, in a way that risked communal overtones.
"At the organisational level, we are sad over the moves which have taken place at the commencement of the academic year itself, making people think about it in a communal manner," he said, adding that the state govt was the one which was open to examining the matter and holding discussions if there was anything in Zumba which should be opposed.
Asked whether KNM opposed introduction of Zumba in schools, Madani said KNM did not have a stand of completely opposing any new reform. "It can be examined if there is anything in it which should be opposed. Creative suggestions can be put before the govt," he said.
IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty said no religious organization was against organizing physical activity in schools.
"The organizations had only sought clarity on some doubts and concerns over the matter.
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The govt has now clarified that Zumba is not compulsory and is optional. I spoke to the education minister and he said that steps would be taken to clear the doubts," Kunhalikutty said.
He said instead of providing clarifications on the points raised, it is improper to brand the organizations as extremists.
EK Sunni leader Nasser Faizi Koodathayi said there was no need for opposition if there is an option to engage in exercises without mixed-gender format and by upholding one's own culture. "Our issue is when it is forcefully imposed," said Koodathayi.