In a significant turn of events, on 15th February, the Karnataka Congress government has backtracked on its decision to prohibit the celebration of Hindu festivals in government-run residential schools and colleges. The move comes after widespread condemnation and pressure from various quarters, including Hindu organizations and opposition parties.
The Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Society (KREIS) had earlier issued a circular imposing restrictions on the observance of religious festivals within the premises of residential facilities under the Social Welfare Department’s jurisdiction. The order issued specified a list of occasions deemed acceptable for celebration within the educational institutions, including Republic Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Kannada Rajyotsava, Ambedkar Jayanti, Valmiki Jayanti, Kanakadasara Jayanti, Basava Jayanti, Constitution Day, and Yoga Day. Any deviation from these prescribed celebrations may lead to stringent action against the heads of the educational institutions, as outlined in the earlier notice. This directive sparked outrage among Hindus as it was an infringement on religious freedom and cultural rights.
Hindus strongly opposed the government’s order, highlighting its discriminatory nature and disregard for the sentiments of Hindu students and staff. The decision to limit celebrations to national, regional, and secular observances was met with staunch opposition, prompting swift action from concerned citizens and organizations.
Following protests and efforts led by groups like Hindu Jagruti Samithi and other Hindu activists, the Karnataka government, which is well known for its anti-Hindu moves, swiftly reversed its contentious directive. The withdrawal of the circular indicates a significant victory for Hindu students and the Hindu community against a biased Congress government. Activists said, the rights and traditions of Hindu communities will not be undermined or marginalized by arbitrary regulations such as the prohibition of Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Navaratri, and Ganesh Chaturthi in residential schools.
A parent, Ramarajan emphasised the significance of religious festivals, highlighting their role in fostering societal cohesion. He questioned the rationale behind banning religious festivals in residential schools, emphasizing that such celebrations play a pivotal role in helping students comprehend the social fabric. Terming the government directive as audacious and suggestive of autocracy, after widespread criticism from Hindus and public outcry, the government, which had initially implemented the ban, ultimately decided to revoke the directive.
