Sun Apr 27 12:33:50 UTC 2025: **Hindu Group Protests Ban on Religious Symbols at Nursing Exam in Karnataka**
MANGALURU, Karnataka – April 27, 2025 – The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has condemned the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) in Bengaluru for prohibiting candidates from wearing religious symbols, including the mangala sutra (a sacred Hindu necklace) and janeu (sacred thread), at an upcoming Nursing Superintendent examination.
Sharan Kumar Pumpwell, South Karnataka Joint Secretary of the VHP, criticized the RRB’s instructions, stating that the ban infringes upon the religious sentiments of Hindu candidates. The VHP argues that the prohibition extends to essential religious items, impacting both men and women.
The RRB’s restrictions, detailed in the examination admission letter, list “bangles, religious symbols, ornaments, and mangala sutra” as prohibited items. The VHP interprets “religious symbols” to include the janeu. Mr. Pumpwell has appealed to local MP Captain Brijesh Chowta and Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner M.P. Mullai Muhilan to intervene.
This incident follows similar complaints regarding the removal of janeu during the recent Common Entrance Test (CET) in Karnataka. The VHP alleges that these actions repeatedly target the religious sentiments of Hindus. The Nursing Superintendent exam is scheduled for April 29th in Mangaluru. The VHP is demanding that the RRB reconsider its policy and allow candidates to wear their religious symbols during the examination.
First Piper 