Removal of sacred thread at CET centre in Shivamogga triggers row

Shivamogga: The alleged forcible removal of 'Janivara' (sacred thread) worn by two second PU students by security staff at Aadichunchanagiri Independent PU College on April 16 when they were entering the centre to appear for CET has invited the wrath of the Brahmin community in the city.

A delegation of leaders of the community, led by former MLA K B Prasanna Kumar, met Deputy Commissioner Gurudatta Hegde on Thursday and urged the officer to take suitable steps in this regard.

Speaking to DH, Prasanna Kumar said, "of the three students, who were asked to remove their 'Janivara' by the security at the entrance of the centre, one opposed it and he was allowed to enter the examination hall without removing it. The others who did not resist were made to remove it. It is unfortunate that the security staff threw 'Janivara' into a dustbin. We strongly condemn this and demand disciplinary action against the staff. Besides, such incidents must not repeat in the future," he said.

He also stated that the staff asked them to remove 'Kashi Dara', worn around the wrist.

Deputy Commissioner Gurudatta Hegde told the delegation that he would look into the issue and directed the authorities concerned not to indulge in such activities. "We only ask the staff to frisk students while entering the examination and remove electronic devices including Bluetooth and Janivara."