The Kerala High Court has taken cognizance of a petition filed against the naming of the Kerala University Youth Festival as ‘Intifada,’ a term meaning ‘shake off’ or ‘civil uprising’ in Arabic. The petition, was brought forth by Ashish. A.S., a student of NSS College, Nilamel, Kollam district, raised concerns about the implications of associating the festival with a term often linked with conflict and violence.
The petitioner’s counsel argued that ‘Intifada’ is a slogan commonly used by religious fundamentalists in the context of the Israel-Hamas confrontations and wars. They contended that such a name could potentially fuel religious discrimination and communalism among students. Justice K.P. Kunjikrishnan heard the petition and directed notices to be issued to the Government of Kerala and Kerala University.
The controversy surrounding the naming of the festival stems from its association with the Palestinian Hamas movement and its historical connotations of violence and unrest. Critics argue that ‘Intifada’ contradicts the spirit of peace and harmony that youth festivals like these are intended to promote. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the festival coinciding with Sivarathri, a Hindu religious observance, potentially putting pressure on Hindu participants.
Protests against the renaming of the festival have intensified, with opponents condemning the use of a term associated with terrorist militias for a cultural event. The petitioner also raised objections to the festival logo, which allegedly depicts a Palestinian scarf on the map of Israel, further exacerbating tensions.
The Kerala University Youth Festival, slated to take place from March 7 to 11, is expected to draw participation from over 3000 students representing more than 200 colleges. However, the controversy surrounding its name has overshadowed the preparations, with stakeholders calling for a reconsideration of the decision to use ‘Intifada’ as the festival’s theme.
The Kerala High Court’s intervention underscores the seriousness of the issue, with the court scheduled to revisit the matter on Tuesday, February 5. As the debate continues, questions remain about the appropriateness of associating a youth festival with a term laden with political and religious implications.
Critics argue that the use of ‘Intifada’ not only undermines the festival’s objectives but also risks inflaming tensions and fostering division among participants. The outcome of the legal proceedings and the response of the authorities will be closely watched as the controversy unfolds.
