The hijab issue in Karnataka had caused a massive controversy which lasted for nearly four to five months. While the controversy has lulled down, another controversy has emerged in the state. Certain right-wing groups in the state have protested against a high school’s directive of allowing students to carry the Bible to the school premises.
Clarence High School in Bengaluru has taken an undertaking from parents that they would allow their wards to carry the Bible to school premises. Right-wing groups in the state have protested against this rule by calling it a violation of the Karnataka Education Act.
Moreover, the Hindu Janajagruti Samithi State Spokesperson, Mohan Gowda, has claimed that the school is forcing non-Christian students to read and learn the teachings of the Bible.
However, the school defended itself by stating that it provided Bible-based education. While filing the application form for grade 11, parents have to sign a declaration that reads “You affirm that your child will attend all classes including Morning Assembly Scripture Class and Clubs for his/her own moral and spiritual welfare and will not object to carry the Bible and Hymn Book during his/her stay at Clarence High School.”
The group has urged the state education department to take action against the school for ‘introducing Bible’ to the students.
The state government recently announced plans to introduce Bhagavad Gita in schools. However, the chief minister stated that the decision would be undertaken in the school curriculum after an extensive discussion.
References: India Today
Featured image source: Newsroom Post
