Recently, a deeply unsettling incident came to light from Karnataka. Brahmin students were allegedly forced to remove their sacred Janivara threads during the CET Exams held on 16th April 2025. This insensitive act ignites widespread anger and hurt among the Hindus of Karnataka. Many wonder at the low levels of religious sensitivity towards Sanatanis and their individual rights in the state’s educational institutions.
Janivara: A Sacred Symbol of Identity
The Janivara is a sacred thread that holds profound significance in Brahmin culture. It symbolizes spiritual initiation, commitment to dharma, and a lifelong journey of learning and self-discipline.
For Brahmin students, wearing the Janivara is not merely a tradition but a vital expression of their religious identity and values.
Thus, forcing students to remove this sacred symbol is perceived as a direct affront to their faith. Moreover, it is an infringement on their constitutional right to religious freedom. But reports state that this is exactly what happened in Karnataka on the 16th of April!
Karnataka CET Exam And Allegations of Religious Insensitivity
On 16th April 2025, during the CET at Aadichunchanagiri Independent PU College in Shivamogga, reports of Janivara removal came forth. Allegedly officials compelled Brahmin students to remove their Janivara threads before entering the examination hall. According to accounts, two students who complied had their threads discarded into a dustbin by staff members.
A third student, who resisted, was eventually allowed to take the exam without removing his Janivara.
Thus, it seems that Janivara’s removal was not truly essential to the CET exam procedure. So why did the officials want to cut and trash the Janivara of the Brahmin students? The incident at Shivamogga was not isolated. A similar incident occurred at the Saispurthi Examination Center in Bidar, where a student was reportedly denied entry to the Mathematics exam for refusing to remove his Janivara.
This student was later permitted to sit for the Biology exam.
but the emotional distress and disruption caused by the missed Mathematics exam robbed this Brahmin child of his due shot at admissions in a good college under open categaroy.
These events are sparking outrage among community leaders and organizations. Why is a sacred thread that cannot assist or hamper the security of the exams removed? While Burqa and Hijab are respected in exams centers, Janivara is forecibly removed? Do they think of it as a micro photocopy cheating threat is possible using a Janeu or Janivara?! Or do they believe that the sudents will indulge in self harm or threaten others using this sacred thread?
The actions of the officials seem distinctly discriminatory towards the Brahmins of Karnataka.
And it reeks of a violation of the religious rights of the Hindu community. Unlike the “peacefuls” of Karnataka, the Brahmins only demand an immediate investigation and accountability from the authorities involved.
Karnataka Under Scrutiny For Anti-Hindu Sentiments
The Congress-led government in Karnataka, under CM Siddaramaiah, repeatedly displays intolerance towards Sanatana Dharma. Many anti-Hindu incidents and policies are coming to light that suggest a distinct dislike for Hindus. Netizens wonder if these anti-Hindu policies and anti-Hindu attitudes come from the top down. Is this behavior indicative of the broader disregard for Hindu religious sensitivities under Congress?
Critics argue that such actions contradict Congress’ stance on secularism and inclusivity.
Thus, the Janivara incident raises questions about the administration’s approach to cultural and religious diversity – specifically in a state where Hindus are a majority. In response, Deputy Commissioner Gurudatta Hegde assured that the matter would be investigated. He confirmed security protocols during exams require only the removal of electronic devices.
There were no official instructions to remove religious symbols like the Janivara.
As these Kartanaka students prepare for critical examinations, they should not be forced to choose between their faith and their future. Ensuring that officials are sensitive to cultural and religious identities is essential. Only then can principles of equality and respect in a diverse society be upheld.
But will the CONgress of Karnataka address these concerns promptly and decisively? Will the anti-Upper-Caste CONgress deliver justice to these Brahmin students? Who Knows! Let’s hope someone takes concrete steps to prevent such occurrences in the future. May the rights and dignity of all its Hindus stay safe in Bharat.