Karnataka: Education officer seeks report from Bengaluru school after right-wing group accuses institution of imposing Bible on students

Bengaluru: After the hijab in classrooms row in Karnataka, a fresh controversy threatens school education in the state. This time, a right wing group has objected to a school taking an undertaking from parents that they would not object to their wards carrying the Bible to class.

A Hindu Janajagruti Samiti State spokesperson alleged that the school has asked non-Christian students to compulsorily carry and read the Bible. This violated Articles 25 and 30 of the Constitution, he said.

Following the allegations, the Block Education Officer visited the school to take stock of the situation. "I have come here to get a report from the school authority," he said.

Karnataka Primary and Secondary education Minister BC Nagesh said "no institution can teach religious textbooks. As you know, the Bible is a religious book of Christianity. Such things cannot be taught in our institutions. Whether it is a minority institution or other institutions. No religious practices are allowed" the minister was quoted by ANI.

Principal of Clarence High School, Jerry George Mathew was quoted by ANI as asyingt, "We are aware that some people are upset about one of the policies of our school. We are a peace-loving and law-abiding school. We've consulted our advocates on this matter and we'll follow their advice. We won't break the law of the land."