Teacher Dismissed from Karnataka Convent School Amidst Controversy Over Alleged Comments on Mahabharat, Ramayan, and PM Modi
A teacher from St Gerosa English HR Primary School in Mangaluru, Karnataka, has been dismissed following a controversy sparked by allegations of derogatory comments on the Mahabharat, Ramayan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The right-wing group, backed by BJP MLA Vedyas Kamath, claimed that the teacher had described the Mahabharat and the Ramayan as “imaginary.” They also accused the teacher of making critical remarks against PM Modi, citing references to the 2002 Godhra riots and the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case. The group filed a complaint, asserting that the teacher was attempting to instill hatred in the minds of students.
Protests were organized by the group, and BJP MLA Vedyas Kamath joined, calling for the suspension of the teacher. He questioned the school’s moral stance in supporting such a teacher and highlighted alleged attempts to influence Hindu traditions by discouraging the wearing of bindis, flowers, and anklets.
Parents of class 7 students claimed that the teacher taught that Lord Ram was a “mythical creature.” The Deputy Director of Public Instructions (DDPI) is currently investigating the case, and the school has taken decisive action by dismissing the teacher based on the alleged remarks.
In response to the incident, St Gerosa School, with a 60-year history, issued a statement expressing regret over the temporary mistrust caused by the incident. The school affirmed its commitment to rebuilding trust with the cooperation of all stakeholders, emphasizing a collaborative effort for the better future of the students.
As of now, no First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against the dismissed teacher.