Did Karnataka NEET Staff Force Students to Remove Sacred Threads?
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Synopsis
In a controversial incident during the NEET examination in Karnataka, two staffers were arrested for allegedly forcing a student to remove his sacred thread. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding religious sentiments and the treatment of students during exams.
Key Takeaways
- Two staff members arrested for coercing a student to remove his sacred thread.
- NEET is a crucial exam for medical admissions in India.
- The incident sparked protests from the Brahmin community.
- Authorities have initiated legal proceedings.
- The case raises questions about respect for religious sentiments in educational settings.
Kalaburagi (Karnataka), May 5 (NationPress) On Monday, the Karnataka Police apprehended two examination centre staff members for allegedly coercing a student to remove his sacred thread before he could take the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
NEET is a crucial nationwide examination organized by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for entry into undergraduate medical programs. This year's exam took place on May 4.
Police Commissioner S.D. Sharanappa revealed that an FIR was filed against the two staffers after a complaint from Sripad Patil, the affected student. Patil accused the staff of violating religious sentiments and called for rigorous action.
The FIR was lodged late Sunday night. Commissioner Sharanappa confirmed the suspects were identified as Sharana Gowda and Ganesh. The Station Bazar Police in Kalaburagi have filed the FIR under Section 298 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Act.
Both accused were employed by a private agency. They have been arrested, and legal proceedings are currently underway, according to the commissioner.
N.S. Bose Raju, the Minister for Science, Technology, and Minor Irrigation, addressed the issue in Raichur on Monday, condemning individuals who mislead others despite explicit government instructions. He noted that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered strict measures against those responsible for the incident involving the sacred threads.
The incident, which transpired at St Mary PU College in Kalaburagi on May 4, has ignited considerable controversy. Following the news, members of the Brahmin community protested outside the exam centre, demanding the staffers' suspension.
Sripad Patil recounted that he was compelled to hand over his sacred thread to his father after being barred from entry while wearing it. He stated this incident caused him significant mental distress, resulting in him erroneously marking his registration number on the answer sheet. Protesters awaited his completion of the exam and conducted a ritual to place the sacred thread back on him afterward.
On April 25, the Karnataka BJP lodged a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission regarding the sacred thread controversy, where students wearing janviara/janeu were barred from taking the Common Entrance Test (CET) in the state.
In his complaint, R. Ashoka, the Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, noted that while Hindu students wearing sacred threads were denied entry, Muslim girls wearing hijabs were permitted to take the examinations.
The Akhila Karnataka Brahmana Mahasangh filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Karnataka High Court on Saturday, denouncing the removal of sacred threads from students during the CET.
The organization has also called for a re-examination. The High Court has accepted the petition and is scheduled to hear the PIL on June 9.
Point of View
It is imperative to view this incident through an unbiased lens. The enforcement of examination protocols must respect cultural and religious sentiments. While the actions of the staff members are concerning, it is crucial to balance regulatory measures with respect for individual beliefs, ensuring that educational institutions are inclusive and respectful of diversity.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the NEET exam in Karnataka?
Two staff members were arrested for allegedly forcing a student to remove his sacred thread before taking the NEET exam, leading to widespread controversy.
Why is the sacred thread significant?
The sacred thread, or 'janviara/janeu,' holds religious significance for many Hindu students, symbolizing their faith and cultural identity.
What actions were taken by the authorities?
The Karnataka Police registered an FIR against the staff members involved and arrested them, with legal proceedings currently underway.
What has been the reaction from the community?
Members of the Brahmin community have protested, demanding the suspension of the involved staff members and expressing concerns over religious sentiments.
What are the implications of this incident?
This incident highlights the need for educational institutions to ensure that examination protocols respect cultural and religious practices, fostering an inclusive environment.
