India, Oct. 28 -- A government school teacher in Burhanpur district has been suspended after being accused of teaching Hindu students Islamic prayers (namaz) under the guise of yoga and Surya Namaskar, media reports said.

The allegation has triggered political and communal tensions in the region, prompting authorities to launch an inquiry.

According to district officials, some parents and villagers complained during the Diwali holidays that students were being made to perform postures resembling namaz during yoga sessions.

Following the complaints, the school's in-charge principal reported the matter to the District Education Officer, who sent a team to investigate.

Additional Collector Veer Singh Chauhan confirmed the action, saying,...