'Janivara' Row: Karnataka Brahmin Group Warns Of Statewide Protest Against KCET Diktat

The Akhila Karnataka Brahmin Mahasabha has issued a warning of statewide demonstrations following reports that Brahmin students were allegedly compelled to remove their sacred thread (Janeu) during the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (CET) conducted earlier this week.

The incident, reportedly occurring at exam centres in Shivamogga and Bidar, has sparked widespread outrage among the Brahmin community.

Photo Credit: PTI

Speaking to ANI, Mahasabha president Raghunath denounced the act, describing it as "an attack on the Brahmin community."

He stated, "We have met with the Chief Minister and demanded stringent action against those responsible. The students were humiliated, and the officials concerned must be suspended."

Raghunath acknowledged that although the Education Minister has expressed regret and CET authorities have issued apologies, the community remains deeply aggrieved.

"Leaders across Karnataka are planning peaceful protests in every district. The act of making students remove their Janeu during the examination has caused profound emotional distress," he added.

Meanwhile, members of the Akhila Karnataka Brahmin Mahasabha, along with pro-Hindu groups, staged protests in Bidar on Saturday in response to the incident.

CET Official Booked

An FIR has been registered against a CET official at Adichunchanagiri School in Sharavathinagara, Shivamogga.

The complaint, lodged by Nataraj Bhagavath, has resulted in charges under Sections 115(2), 299, 351(1), and 352, along with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

Police have launched an inquiry into the events surrounding the alleged instruction to remove religious symbols. The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has not yet provided a detailed statement on the matter.

The opposition BJP has also strongly criticised the incident. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi described it as an attack on Hindu traditions and values.

"Wearing the sacred thread is an ancient tradition among Hindus, including Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and even Lingayats who wear the Linga. Why should this be an issue during an examination?" he questioned, accusing the Congress-led state government of exhibiting intolerance towards Hindu practices. He urged firm action against those responsible.