Tue Apr 22 15:20:52 UTC 2025: ## Mangaluru Rally Protests Removal of ‘Janivara’ from Students
**Mangaluru, Karnataka, April 22, 2025** – Hundreds of people rallied in Mangaluru today protesting incidents where students were reportedly asked to remove their “janivara” (sacred thread) before taking the Common Entrance Test (CET) in Karnataka. The demonstration, organized by the Akhila Karnataka Brahmana Maha Sabha (AKBMS) Dakshina Kannada district unit, saw protesters march from Sharavu Maha Ganapathi temple to the mini Vidhana Soudha.
The protesters submitted a memorandum to the government, demanding justice for the affected students and condemning what they described as an anti-Hindu bias by the Congress government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Mangaluru City South MLA D. Vedavyasa Kamath criticized the incidents, stating that wearing the “janivara” is a significant part of Indian tradition and that the government should apologize for the perceived targeting of Hindus. He highlighted that the “janivara” is worn not only by Brahmins but also by members of other communities.
The rally was attended by prominent figures including several religious leaders, AKBMS representatives, BJP leaders, and other community members. Participants carried placards and chanted slogans demanding action against those responsible. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and ignited a debate about religious freedom and equality.
First Piper 