Physical education teacher suspended after video alleging worms in sports meet food

UPDATE - follow-up to Keralam teacher arrested for alleging worms found in food at State Sports Meet; Minister alleges conspiracy: The Keralam Education Department suspended physical education teacher Jijo James on Thursday, Oct 29, 2026, after he was accused of filming a claim that worms were present in food served at the State School Sports Meet in Kozhikode. James, who teaches at Shalom Vocational Higher Secondary School in Vengola, Ernakulam, was taken into custody by Kunnamangalam police when he recorded the video near the food‑preparation area on Wednesday. Organisers objected, and the police intervened to prevent further trouble, after which the food‑committee convener filed a complaint. General Education Minister N. Samsudheen told media that some people are deliberately trying to take the shine off the event and that the allegation could be an offence against the participating students. He announced an inquiry into the alleged conspiracy. Earlier in the week, some media reports had claimed worms were found in the sambar served to students.

Context

State school sports meets attract large student crowds, so food‑safety concerns quickly draw public and official attention. Allegations of contamination can affect the reputation of the host district and prompt swift administrative action.