Bengaluru: A controversy has erupted in Bengaluru after several students alleged that they were asked to remove their sacred thread while appearing for the Common Entrance Test (CET) at a city college, triggering political reactions and an official inquiry.
The incident reportedly took place at Krupanidhi College in the Madivala area, where students claimed that invigilators instructed them to remove religious threads before entering the examination hall.
Students allege forced removal of sacred thread
According to students, at least five candidates were asked to remove the sacred thread (Janivara/Yajnopaveetha), which holds religious significance. Some also alleged that threads tied on the wrist were removed during security checks.
One student said that while removal of metallic items like earrings could be understood as part of exam regulations, being asked to remove the sacred thread came as a shock. Left with little choice, the student complied in order to avoid missing the examination.
Parents later reached the examination centre and questioned the authorities, pointing out that there were no clear instructions mandating removal of such items in the exam guidelines.
Similar incidents reported earlier
This is not the first time such an issue has surfaced. A similar controversy had arisen last year in places such as Shivamogga and Bidar, prompting the government to clarify that candidates should not be asked to remove sacred threads during examinations.
Despite these earlier directions, students alleged that the practice has continued this year as well, raising concerns about implementation of guidelines at examination centres.
Government orders inquiry
Reacting to the incident, Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar termed the development “unfortunate” and said the matter is being treated with seriousness.
He stated that instructions had been issued to file a complaint against the institution and ensure appropriate action. The college has reportedly suspended the invigilator involved, pending inquiry.
The minister also indicated that a review would be conducted to determine strict penalties under the law for those responsible and to prevent recurrence of such incidents in the future.
Police register case, question staff
Police have registered a case and secured three staff members who were involved in examination checks. They are currently being questioned as part of the investigation.
Authorities are examining whether the instructions given by invigilators violated established guidelines and whether any disciplinary or legal action is warranted.
Political reactions intensify
The issue has taken a political turn, with Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka criticising the state government and alleging that such incidents reflect insensitivity towards religious practices.
He questioned why students were asked to remove sacred threads when no such directive was mentioned in official guidelines, and called for accountability.
Meanwhile, the state government has maintained that it is committed to ensuring fairness and respect for all students and has initiated steps to address the issue.
Need for clear guidelines
Officials have acknowledged the need for clearer communication of examination guidelines to avoid confusion during security checks. The minister said that from next year onwards, instructions regarding permissible items should be clearly conveyed in advance to both institutions and students.
Conclusion
The incident has highlighted the importance of balancing examination security protocols with sensitivity towards cultural and religious practices. With an inquiry underway and action initiated against those involved, authorities are expected to take further steps to ensure such situations do not recur, while maintaining a fair and respectful environment for all candidates.