Bengaluru: A major controversy has erupted in Bengaluru after three staff members of a private college were arrested for allegedly forcing students to remove their sacred Janivara (sacred thread) during the Common Entrance Test (CET). The incident has triggered widespread outrage across Karnataka, with strong reactions from community organisations, parents, and political leaders, who have condemned it as a serious violation of religious freedom.
The case was registered at the Madiwala Police Station based on a complaint filed by a parent. According to the complaint, his son, who had arrived to write the physics exam conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority, was stopped at the examination centre during routine security checks. The staff allegedly instructed him to remove his Janivara, despite his objections and explanation that it was a sacred religious symbol.
Taking the complaint seriously, police launched an investigation and arrested three individuals connected to the examination process — the college vice-principal and exam in-charge Sudhakar, first division assistant Saritha, and room invigilator Girija. Officials stated that preliminary findings indicated that the instruction to remove the sacred thread was enforced on multiple candidates, not just one individual.
The arrests have become the focal point of public discourse, symbolising both accountability and the gravity of the incident. However, for many, this action alone is not enough. The controversy has sparked a larger debate about the lack of sensitivity and clarity in exam protocols when it comes to religious practices.
The Janivara is not just an accessory but a deeply significant symbol in Brahmin tradition, representing spiritual discipline and identity. Forcing its removal, especially in a high-stakes environment like a CET exam, is being widely perceived as humiliating and unnecessary. Critics argue that while security checks are important, they must be carried out with cultural awareness and respect.
ಮಾಂಗಲ್ಯ, ಜನಿವಾರ ತೆಗೆಸುವ ಹಿಂದೂ ವಿರೋಧಿ ಕಾಂಗ್ರೆಸ್ ಸರ್ಕಾರದ ಕುಕೃತ್ಯಗಳು ಮುಂದುವರಿಯುತ್ತಲೇ ಇವೆ!
ಕಳೆದ ವರ್ಷ ಸಿಇಟಿ, ನೀಟ್ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆಗಳ ಸಂದರ್ಭದಲ್ಲಿ ಜನಿವಾರ ಕತ್ತರಿಸಿ, ಕೆಪಿಎಸ್ಸಿ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಮಾಂಗಲ್ಯ ತೆಗೆಸಿ ಪರೀಕ್ಷೆ ಬರೆಯುವಂತೆ ಹೇಳಿದ್ದ ಕಾಂಗ್ರೆಸ್ ಸರ್ಕಾರ ಈ ವರ್ಷವೂ ತನ್ನ ಹಳೆ ಚಾಳಿ ಮುಂದುವರಿಸಿದೆ.
ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನ… pic.twitter.com/4BQsyfvmQ1
— R. Ashoka (@RAshokaBJP) April 24, 2026
Speaking to the media, R Ashok said the affected student’s family belongs to his constituency and alleged that the Janivara was removed deliberately during the CET exam. “Even when the student refused and explained that it was a matter of religious sentiment, the staff did not relent,” he said, expressing strong displeasure.
He further accused the Siddaramaiah Government of hurting Hindu religious sentiments. “Today it is the Janivara; tomorrow it could be the Lingayat thread, then the Vokkaliga ududaara. Will they stop at that? Will they spare the mangal sutra or anklets? Is this not shameful?” he questioned.
Ashok demanded a thorough police investigation and strict action against those responsible. “This incident has affected students during a crucial exam. Why are those wearing Janivara, Shivadara, and Ududaara being targeted?” he asked, adding that officials acted only after he indicated he would visit the police station. He also called for the immediate suspension of the concerned police inspector.
Public anger has been swift and intense. Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions condemning the incident, with many users questioning how such actions could take place despite previous controversies and assurances by authorities. Community organisations, including the Akhila Karnataka Brahmana Mahasabha, have strongly criticised the incident and demanded strict action against those responsible. The organisation has even called for cancellation of the college’s licence and the imposition of a substantial financial penalty.
Political reactions have further intensified the issue. Several leaders have accused the system of selectively targeting certain religious practices under the guise of security. They have warned that such incidents, if not addressed firmly, could deepen social tensions and erode trust in public institutions.
Equally concerning is the psychological impact on students. CET is one of the most important examinations for aspiring professional course candidates in Karnataka. Any form of distress or humiliation during such a critical moment can affect a student’s concentration and performance. Parents have expressed anguish, stating that their children were forced into a situation where they had to choose between their faith and their future.
