Reacting to a Christian school in Bengaluru making Bible classes compulsory for even non-Christian students, Karnataka Education Minister B.C. Nagesh said the the decision of the school is wrong and against rules.
Clarence High School in the city had asked all the students, including non-Christians, to compulsorily take part in Bible classes. The move had attracted the ire of Hindu outfits who had said they would meet the state education minister on the issue.
Mohan Gowda, spokesperson of the Hindu Janajagruthi Samithi, had said the school forced parents to sign a declaration in which they have to accept that their child attended Bible classes.
The minister, on Tuesday, pointed out that Karnataka State Education Act clearly says that no school can teach religious books or practices.
"Whatever decision was taken by the school is wrong. It is against rules," he said, adding, "Don't know why the school forced students to take Bible along."
According to news agency PTI, in the 'Declaration by Parents,' it was said, "You affirm that your child will attend all classes, including morning assembly, scripture class and clubs for his/her own moral and spiritual welfare, and will not object to carrying the Bible and hymn book during his/her stay at Clarence High School."
