New Delhi, June 29 -- Amid a row over inclusion of Zumba in Kerala schools, state's General Education Minister V Sivankutty on Sunday dismissed criticism from some Muslim religious organisations and warned against giving a communal colour to educational activities.

"Zumba is a nationally recognised sport, with lakhs participating across the country," Sivankutty told reporters.

Referring to the comments from certain religious groups against the Zumba programme, Sivankutty alleged that all those who participate in the sport have been insulted by the derogatory remarks made.

"Those who made such comments should withdraw them and offer a public apology," he said.

The Zumba programme was introduced as part of an anti-drug awareness campaig...