The Kerala High Court has issued notice to the Kerala government and Kerala University Students’ Union based on a plea opposing the choice of the term ‘Intifada’ for a youth festival to be held in Thiruvananthapuram from March 7 to 11. The petitioner, A S Ashish, a college student, contends that ‘Intifada’ is an Arabic word historically used by Palestinians to signify ‘civil uprising’. He argues that the term has been associated with terror groups like Hamas and is therefore unsuitable for a youth festival. The court has asked the state government and the students’ union to respond to the petition.

The term ‘Intifada’ is commonly associated with Palestinian uprisings against Israeli occupation. It has been used to refer to both peaceful protests and violent resistance. The petitioner argues that using this term for a youth festival could send a wrong message and glorify violence and terrorism.

The Kerala University Students’ Union, in response to the petition, has stated that the term was selected based on its meaning of ‘uprising’ and ‘resistance’, and was not intended to promote violence. They argue that the festival aims to provide a platform for students to express themselves and showcase their talents through various cultural and artistic activities. The union asserts that the festival is a celebration of youth spirit and creativity, and not linked to any political agenda or violent activities.

However, the petitioner points out that ‘Intifada’ has a specific historical and political context, and is widely associated with the Palestinian struggle against Israeli occupation. He argues that using such a term for a youth festival could be seen as trivializing the issue and undermining the seriousness of the Palestinian cause.

The High Court’s notice to the state government and the students’ union has sparked a debate on the appropriateness of the term ‘Intifada’ for a youth festival. It remains to be seen how the court will decide on the matter and whether the festival’s name will be changed.

This case highlights the significance of choosing appropriate names and symbols for events, especially those with cultural or political implications. It also raises important questions about the role of youth festivals in promoting understanding, tolerance, and social harmony. The outcome of this case could have implications for similar events in the future and may lead to a more careful consideration of the messages conveyed through event names and themes.