A study tour by schoolchildren to the K.R. Narayanan National Institute of Visual Science and Arts in Kottayam was cut short on Saturday after a group of students allegedly intervened and prevented their entry, citing objections to visits by community organisations.

The visit was organised for children from Mannam Balasamajam, an outfit under the Nair Service Society (NSS) Karayogam at Pampady. Around 35 children, accompanied by five office-bearers of the Karayogam, had arrived at the institute after obtaining prior permission for an educational visit intended to familiarise them with the campus and its functioning.

An hour-long interactive session arranged for the visitors was under way when representatives of the Students’ Council of the institution allegedly intervened and disrupted the programme. The protesting students objected to the visit, stating that entry could not be permitted in the name of a community organisation and contended that the institute management had granted permission without consulting the student body.

‘Entry is permitted’

Institute authorities, however, clarified that entry is permitted to anyone who secures prior approval, irrespective of caste or religion. They also noted that public visits are allowed on Saturdays.

The visiting group, they added, consisted of around 35 children and five adults who had arrived in accordance with the approved schedule.

Plaint with children’s panel

Meanwhile, K.R. Narayanan Foundation chairman A.B.J. Jose on Sunday lodged a complaint with the Kerala State Child Rights Commission against those who allegedly obstructed the visit. According to the complaint, the children, who had paid a ₹50 entry fee and obtained prior permission, were unnecessarily stopped by students citing the name of an organisation. “Despite clearance from the institute's authorities, the institute students acted in violation of the approved arrangements by preventing the visit, resulting in the group returning without completing the scheduled programme,’’ it alleged.