A wave of controversy has hit Karnataka after reports emerged that students wearing sacred threads (janeu) were allegedly denied entry to CET exam centers. The incidents, from Bidar and Shivamogga, have triggered public outrage and forced swift action from authorities.
On April 17, Suchivrat Kulkarni, a CET candidate, alleged he wasn’t allowed inside the Sai Spoorthi Pre-University College in Bidar for his Mathematics exam due to his sacred thread. Despite pleading for 45 minutes with the college staff, Kulkarni claimed he was turned away, unable to appear for the crucial test.
In response, the Sai Deepa Education and Charitable Trust, which manages the college, took immediate action. On April 19, they suspended Principal Dr. Chandra Shekar Biradar and staff member Satish Pawar pending investigation.
A similar incident was reported in Shivamogga at Adichunchanagiri PU College, where students were allegedly asked to remove their sacred threads before being permitted into the exam hall.
Public anger escalated, leading to an FIR being lodged against the officer in charge at the Shivamogga center. Police have launched a probe into the matter.
Karnataka’s Higher Education Minister, Dr. MC Sudhakar, called the incidents “deeply unfortunate,” emphasizing that the CET process was largely smooth statewide, barring these two exceptions. He assured that the government will ensure such lapses are not repeated.
Families and students are now demanding re-examinations and stronger safeguards for religious practices during exams, hoping for a just resolution.
