A primary school in Shimoga, whose recognition has been withdrawn for alleged failure to celebrate Independence Day for two consecutive years, has moved the Karnataka High Court against its derecognition. The petitioner, Excel School of Vinobanagar, Shimoga, run by Excel Education Society has challenged Shimoga BEO’s action in withdrawing its recognition by an order on Aug 15, 2007.
The school contended that the allegation was false and that the BEO had suddenly withdrawn recognition, without issuing any notice. The school stated that it could not organise flag hoisting ceremony in the early hours of Aug 15 due to delay in arrival of its management members. However, flag hoisting was scheduled at 11.30 am, but, then a mob prevented the same, the school claimed.
Government counsel Manohar said that in reference to a complaint from Hindu Sena Samithi, the BEO had noted that despite a serious warning as to non-hoisting of national flag on Aug 15, 2006, the school had failed to do so on this year’s Independence Day too.  Justice BS Patil expressed serious concern saying that alleged conduct of the school pricked his conscience.
The school pressed for an interim order of stay against Den-recognition and sought permission to run classes. However, the Court adjourned the matter to August 28.