Karnataka: Hijab Ban Controversy Clouds Best Teacher Award Decision

Udupi: The state government's decision to withhold the state-level Best Teacher Award from Ramakrishna BG, principal of Government Pre-University College in Kundapura Taluk of Udupi district, has stirred controversy.

Ramakrishna BG was initially selected for the award based on his accomplishments and service. However, objections were raised due to his involvement in enforcing the hijab ban order of the state government at the college two years ago.

The government announced a list of outstanding educators to be honored on Teacher's Day, with Ramakrishna being selected in the PU section. However, the decision to confer the award on him was reportedly withheld due to pressure from progressive groups.

The controversy stems from the hijab ban incident, two years ago in 2022, at Women's PU College in Udupi, after which the state government mandated a uniform dress code across all colleges. The BJP government in the state had then directed all the college administrations to strictly follow the dress code. Ramakrishna, the principal of Govt PU College in Kundapur, enforced the government orders by stopping female students who violated the dress code at the college gate. This was strongly opposed by the students who were not allowed inside the college and also some student's organisations. A photo of the incident went viral at the time, adding fuel to the ongoing debate.

While BJP leaders have strongly opposed the decision to withhold the award, Congress leaders have stood by the government's move.

Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai criticized the decision.

“The principal was merely performing his duty. The High Court too has upheld the ban on hijab. The case is pending in the Supreme Court. In such a situation, withholding the award from someone they chose is disrespectful to the teaching community,” he said.

Bommai also urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to intervene and ensure the award is granted, warning that public sentiment could turn against the government.

Udupi-Chikmagalur MP Kota Srinivas Poojary also expressed disappointment, calling the decision "a painful move and an insult to the teaching community."

He questioned whether the government respects the High Court's ruling on the hijab ban or is following its own agenda.

Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna strongly condemned the decision. “Ramakrishna was chosen based on his eligibility, achievements, and work performance. Withdrawing the decision is a clear case of appeasing a particular community and is an insult to Udupi district and the teaching profession," he said.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders have defended the government's action. KPCC working president and MLC Manjunath Bhandary told Deccan Chronicle, "The key issue is how the principal implemented the government’s decision during a sensitive time, rather than whether the decision itself was right or wrong."

MLC Ivan D’Souza echoed this sentiment, saying that the government acted in response to strong opposition from society and chose to avoid further controversy.