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Principal apologises after allegedly making remarks with reference to ‘Zam Zam’ water considered sacred in Islam.
Tension prevailed at Delhi Public School Baramulla on Friday after students staged a protest inside the campus over alleged controversial remarks made by the school principal, eventually prompting a public apology.
According to school officials, the issue began during a routine inspection when the principal noticed that the school podium had not been cleaned. Upon inquiry, the cleaning staff reportedly cited non-availability of water as the reason.
The principal then instructed staff to ensure cleanliness.
However, the situation escalated after the principal allegedly used the phrase “clean the floor with Zam Zam,” which was perceived by students and staff as deeply insensitive. In a Muslim-majority region, the reference to Zam Zam, considered sacred in Islam, was viewed by many as inappropriate and offensive, turning the issue into a wider communal concern.
Soon after the remarks, students assembled and launched a protest shortly after school hours began, raising slogans and demanding an apology. The demonstration disrupted routine academic activities for several hours.
The controversy quickly spilled onto social media, where hundreds of users began campaigns condemning the alleged remarks. Many demanded registration of an FIR against the principal, calling the statement unacceptable in a secular country like India, where all religions are to be respected.
Several voices online questioned the environment within educational institutions, stating that if school leadership is perceived as insensitive or communal, it raises concerns about the values being imparted to students.
Meanwhile, parents gathered outside the school premises as news of the protest spread, though entry was restricted while authorities attempted to defuse tensions. Videos of the protest circulated widely on messaging platforms, further amplifying public reaction.
Despite initial resistance from protesting students, the situation eased later in the day when the principal issued an apology.
“If my words have hurt the sentiments of the students, I express my sincere apology. I am very sorry,” the principal said.
While calm was eventually restored and academic activities resumed, the incident has reignited scrutiny of the institution, which has previously made headlines over issues related to student fees and concerns regarding staff conduct.
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