Principal who blocked hijab-wearing students loses Karnataka Govt award

The Karnataka government has retracted the best principal award for 2024-25 previously announced to Ramakrishna B.G., principal of the Government Pre-University College in Kundapur, Udupi district.

This decision came in response to backlash from activists and academics regarding his role in the controversial hijab issue that emerged during the previous BJP administration.

The controversy surrounding Ramakrishna B.G. dates back to 2022 when he gained notoriety for his handling of the hijab debate in Karnataka. During this period, he was criticised for barring Muslim students wearing hijabs from entering the college.

This action, which included personally locking the college gates, drew widespread condemnation and attracted international media attention. Critics argued that his actions contributed to the distress and exodus of Muslim students from the institution.

On Teacher’s Day, the State government had initially recognised Ramakrishna B.G. among 41 teachers, principals, and lecturers from government schools and PU colleges for their exemplary contributions. However, following the uproar over his past actions, the government decided to withhold the award.

The hijab controversy began in December 2021 when several female students were denied entry to their classrooms for wearing hijabs. The issue escalated rapidly, leading to similar restrictions across various educational institutions in the state. Protests erupted, with Hindu students demonstrating against their hijab-clad peers, resulting in the temporary closure of schools and universities.

In March 2022, the Karnataka High Court supported the state government's stance, ruling that the hijab was not a necessary part of student attire and that educational institutions had the authority to enforce dress codes.