Karnataka govt halts best teacher award to principal who barred hijab in Udupi college

Bengaluru: In a dramatic turn of events, the Karnataka government has put on hold the best teacher award for Ramakrishna BG, the Principal of the Government Pre-University College in Kundapura, Udupi district.

The decision stems from his alleged stance during the hijab controversy that roiled the state two years ago—a time when classrooms became battlegrounds over the right of Muslim students to wear hijabs.

Ramakrishna, initially set to receive the award on Teachers' Day, now finds his recognition in limbo. The Congress-led state government’s decision came after a section of Muslim community activists raised objections, alleging that the principal’s actions during the hijab row were "discriminatory".

At the height of the controversy, Ramakrishna had reportedly barred students wearing hijabs from entering the college, sparking outrage and legal battles that would grip Karnataka for months.

Karnataka’s Primary and Secondary Education Minister, Madhu Bangarappa, addressed the growing criticism, clarifying that the award was not revoked but temporarily withheld pending further review. Bangarappa initiated a comprehensive review of the teacher's conduct during the hijab controversy, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination before determining the next course of action. He urged stakeholders to remain patient as his team reexamines the principal's behavior during that tumultuous period.

The hijab controversy, which became a flashpoint for debates on religious freedoms and institutional regulations, saw students, parents, and political leaders clashing in courtrooms and on the streets.

Ramakrishna’s adherence to a then-government order restricting hijabs in classrooms now casts a long shadow over what was supposed to be a moment of honor.

The response from the opposition has been swift and fiery. BJP MLA Y Bharath Shetty from Mangalore City North lambasted the government, accusing it of caving to “Jihadi elements.”

Shetty did not mince words, saying, "It's appalling that the award, conferred after rigorous adherence to eligibility criteria, was revoked under pressure from organizations like SDPI and PFI. Despite following official protocols, Ramakrishna is being penalized for simply doing his job, highlighting a disturbing trend of intimidation and coercion."

Despite the backlash, Minister Bangarappa stood firm on the need for a careful review. "If he was wrong, I would have cancelled the award immediately. If he is right, he will receive it. The matter needs careful examination, and I have instructed my officers accordingly," he said, emphasizing that the review process was far from over.