Karnataka Government Halts Best Teacher Award Amid Hijab Ban Controversy

The Karnataka government has paused its state-level best teacher award due to controversy stemming from a two-year-old hijab ban incident. The decision faced backlash online and criticism from various political and religious groups, leading the government to review its decision.

The Karnataka government has temporarily halted the state-level best teacher award that was set to be given to the principal of Kundapur Government Pre-Graduation College. The principal's identity remains undisclosed.

The controversy dates back two years when the then-principal, Ramakrishna BG, barred students from entering the school while wearing hijabs, adhering to a government mandate. The incident sparked widespread protests, particularly in Mangalore, Mandya, and Udupi districts.

The award announcement was met with criticism on social media from 'progressive' individuals, resulting in the government's decision to put the award on hold. Karnataka Primary and Secondary Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa commented, 'The committee seems to have overlooked this issue. Upon discovering the controversy, we decided to clarify and then proceed. Politicising the issue will not help.'

Hindu organizations condemned the government's move, accusing it of appeasement. Govardhan Rao, vice president of VHP North Karnataka, stated, 'We condemn holding the award because it was given for excellence in education. The government should withdraw this hold immediately.'

Former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticized the decision, calling it 'shameless appeasement politics.' He added, 'A principal selected as one of the best teachers is denied his honor because he enforced the Hijab Ban, which was the law.'

(With inputs from agencies.)