Karnataka Students Asked to Remove Sacred Threads Before Exams; Protests Erupt

Bengaluru: Two students in Karnataka were allegedly asked to remove their religious sacred threads by security personnel before entering the examination centres for the Common Entrance Test (CET) in Shivamogga and Bidar districts on Thursday, sparking outrage. The sacred thread, worn by many Hindus, is an important religious symbol.

In Shivamogga, one student resisted the demand to remove his sacred thread, while another student's thread was cut by security personnel at the entrance using scissors. The cut thread was reportedly thrown into a dustbin. Additionally, some students were asked to remove their sacred ‘Rudraksha’ mala before entering the examination centre.

A source told Deccan Chronicle that one student refused to remove his sacred thread when asked but was later told to remove his wrist thread. After some time, his sacred thread was cut by security personnel, allowing him to enter the examination hall.

In Bidar, a student who had appeared for two CET papers on Wednesday was stopped by security personnel on Thursday before the mathematics exam. He was asked to remove his sacred thread but refused, leading to an altercation. The student then left the examination centre without sitting for the exam, although he appeared for the Biology paper later that afternoon.

Following the incidents, members of the Brahmin community in Shivamogga met with deputy commissioner Gurudutt Hegde, demanding action against the responsible individuals. The DC assured them that an investigation would be conducted.

Minister of higher education Sudhakar said he would seek a report from the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) and take action based on the findings. He clarified that no guidelines had been issued to remove sacred threads. Akhila Karnataka Brahmana Mahasabha president Raghunath called the incident an “insult” to the Brahmin community, while Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka demanded suspensions for those involved.