Mangaluru: VHP provincial co-secretary Sharan Pumpwell on Tuesday criticised the Karnataka government over reports regarding the reintroduction of permission for wearing hijab in educational institutions, while also raising concerns related to communal harmony and demanding action over an alleged provocative speech made by an SDPI leader.
Speaking at a press conference in the city, Pumpwell expressed objections to the reported move and alleged that it had been introduced for political reasons. He further made remarks regarding educational institutions, communal issues and religious sensitivities during the interaction with media representatives.
The statements came amid continuing discussions surrounding educational policies and social issues in the state.
VHP criticises reported hijab decision
Addressing reporters, Pumpwell stated that restrictions on hijab in schools and colleges had earlier been introduced by the previous BJP government with the objective of maintaining uniformity and equality within educational institutions.
He alleged that the present Congress government had chosen to revisit the matter and claimed that the move was politically motivated. Pumpwell further criticised what he described as an attempt to pursue “appeasement politics”.
He also claimed that if students are allowed to wear hijab in educational institutions, similar demands could emerge from other groups regarding religious symbols and attire.
During the interaction, Pumpwell stated that students choosing to wear saffron shawls would receive support from VHP and Bajrang Dal if such a situation arose.
He further said that if disputes emerge in schools and colleges over the issue, the responsibility would lie with the government. He urged authorities to reconsider and withdraw the reported decision.
The issue of dress regulations and religious attire in educational institutions has remained a subject of debate and legal discussion in Karnataka in recent years.
VHP seeks action over alleged speech by SDPI leader
During the press conference, Pumpwell also called upon police authorities to take action against a Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) leader over an alleged speech delivered during an Urs programme near Gudinabail in Bantwal.
According to Pumpwell, the speech contained remarks that he alleged could create communal tensions. He claimed that statements made during the programme had encouraged confrontational responses regarding matters linked to beef consumption.
Pumpwell alleged that such remarks could disturb social harmony and urged authorities to take legal action.
He demanded that police register a suo motu case against the individual concerned and investigate the matter.
At the time of the statements made during the press conference, there was no official information immediately available regarding any police action in connection with the allegations.
Remarks made on communal harmony and religious sensitivity
Pumpwell also spoke about communal harmony and inter-community relations during the media interaction.
He stated that harmony among communities should extend beyond symbolic events and social gatherings. According to him, genuine harmony should involve mutual respect towards the religious sentiments and beliefs of different communities.
Referring to upcoming Bakrid celebrations, he appealed for consideration towards religious sentiments associated with cows among Hindus.
He said respecting sentiments across communities would contribute towards stronger social understanding and peaceful coexistence.
Public statements likely to draw political attention
The comments made during the press conference come at a time when issues concerning educational policies, religious practices and communal matters continue to generate public and political discussions in Karnataka.
Statements made by leaders of social and religious organisations often attract attention and trigger wider debate, particularly on issues involving education and community relations.
Observers note that matters relating to religion, identity and public policy frequently become subjects of political discussion in the state.
As debates surrounding these issues continue, authorities and stakeholders are expected to focus on maintaining public order and ensuring that discussions remain within the framework of law and constitutional values.