A Karnataka science fair in the Chamarajanagar district has ended in controversy following a student's project that had sharply controversial religious remarks, eliciting a formal probe. The student's project that included sharply controversial remarks on religion has attracted wide criticism following a video recording of the exhibition that went viral on social media.
In the video, the student is holding two dolls—a doll dressed in a burqa and another dressed in a short dress. The burqa-dressed doll is covered in a coffin with flowers, and the other one in a coffin with snakes and scorpions. The student says, "If you wear a burqa, nothing bad happens to your body when you die.". But if you wear short garments, you will be led to hell, where scorpions and snakes will devour your body.
Citing more Islamic texts, the student continues, "A man who lets his wife walk around uncovered is a dayyus (cuckold)." The quotes have sparked outrage, with many asking how these opinions were articulated in an educational setting.
Twitter users responded quickly, naming Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and state Director General of Police, calling for an investigation.
The incident has been confirmed by the authorities and assured that there is an ongoing investigation. Chamarajanagar Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) Rajendra Raje Urs validated the authenticity of the video and informed that the officials are analyzing the context under which the project was carried out. "We have to understand the entire context before reaching any conclusion. A detailed report will be submitted today," he added.
The incident once more raised the question of the place of religious beliefs in schools and what role schools should play in molding young minds.
Karnataka Science Fair Ends in Controversy over Religious Remarks in Student Project
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