Kolkata School Files FIR Over Parcel Containing Quran, Islamic Religious Texts

A state-run school in the city has lodged a police complaint after receiving a registered parcel containing Islamic religious books, including a copy of the Quran, along with a letter proposing the introduction of Islamic teaching and religious-text studies in its curriculum, an official said on Monday.

Jadavpur Vidyapith headmaster Parthapratim Baidya said the parcel was delivered to his office on September 24. It contained several religious books, including a copy of the Quran, and a letter requesting the school to incorporate Islamic teachings and the study of religious texts into its syllabus.

The school subsequently lodged an FIR at Jadavpur Police Station on September 25, he said.

Baidya said the institution, which is a well-known state-run school, has never sought to impart religious or dogmatic views to its students.

"We are a well-known state-run school and never instilled religious dogmatic views among our students. We believe in India's inclusiveness, where students cannot be taught the tenets of one particular religion," he said.

The headmaster said he suspected that some elements could have sent the parcel and letter with the intention of creating tension, though he did not identify anyone.

"It is up to the police to unravel the circumstances behind such a move," Baidya said.

He also pointed to the school's proximity to Jadavpur University, where student groups have previously been involved in standoffs, and said the school wanted to avoid any situation that could disturb its students.

"Thousands of children study here," he said.

A senior police officer said an investigation has been launched to establish the source and identity of the sender.

Police are examining CCTV footage from the school and surrounding areas. Investigators are also verifying whether the individual named as the sender in the parcel and letter actually dispatched them or whether someone else sent the material in that person's name.