Karnataka school’s mandatory Bible policy triggers fresh row

A school in Bengaluru has raked up a controversy by allegedly mandating students to participate in Bible lessons.

Right-wing outfit Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has alleged that the Clarence High School in Bengaluru asked the parents to sign a declaration that they had no objection to children participating in these classes.

Amid the controversy, Karnataka primary and secondary education minister BC Nagesh said on Monday that “no religious practices are allowed” in educational institutions. “No institution can teach religious textbooks... Whether it is a minority institution or other institutions. No religious practices are allowed,” he was quoted as saying by ANI.

The school, however, has said that it will follow the law on the matter.

According to details shared by Mohan Gowda, spokesperson of the right-wing outfit, the ‘Declaration by Parents,’ stated: “You affirm that your child will attend all classes, including morning assembly, scripture class and clubs for his/her own moral and spiritual welfare, and will not object to carrying the Bible and

Hymn book during his/her stay at Clarence High School.”

School principal Jerry George Mathew said: “On the behalf of the trust and the board of management of Clarence High School, we want to tell you that we are aware that some people in society are upset with one of the policies of our school. We are a peace-loving and a law-abiding school. We have consulted with our advocates in this matter and we will follow their advice...”

The controversy comes on the heels of Nagesh announcing that the Bhagavad Gita will be taught in schools across the state from the upcoming academic session.