New Delhi: A controversy has erupted in Chikkaballapur after a student was allegedly forced to have his janivara (sacred thread) cut with scissors and thrown into a dustbin during the KCET 2026 screening process at an exam centre. However, the student and his family have not filed a formal complaint yet.
According to police, the student, identified as KR Supreeth, has been hesitant to lodge a complaint even after a request from them. Officials said that without a complaint, it is difficult to register a case. They added that a representation submitted by a community organisation cannot be treated as a formal complaint.
Student says sacred thread cut and discarded
Initial statements from the student suggested that his sacred thread had been cut and discarded. The student, who had performed his upanayana (sacred thread ceremony) just ten days prior, expressed deep humiliation over the incident. However, police said CCTV footage presents a different sequence of events and is being examined as part of the inquiry. Reports suggest the family may be under pressure or influence from the college management to avoid legal action.
Police have recorded the student’s video and written statements and also conducted a reconstruction of the incident at the examination centre to understand the sequence of events.
Similar incident reported in Bengaluru
Meanwhile, state minister M C Sudhakar said he has sought a probe into the matter, questioning the need for such actions during checks and calling for appropriate action if wrongdoing is established.
This incident came after a similar report of janivara removal was reported from Bengaluru. The incident sparked widespread outrage and political debate over the protection of religious sentiments during state examinations.