Hindu Outfit Demands Action Over CTET Mangalsutra Removal Incident
The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) has launched a formal protest against examination officials in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar who allegedly instructed Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) aspirants to remove their jewellery, including sacred mangalsutras, during security procedures this past Sunday. The organization has characterized this directive as a severe violation of religious sentiments and an act of humiliation directed specifically at Hindu women.
Allegations of Religious Insensitivity and Constitutional Violation
In a detailed representation submitted to the district administration on Tuesday, HJS members articulated their grievances. They stated that compelling women to remove not just ordinary jewellery but also the mangalsutra—a deeply revered symbol of marital status in Hindu tradition—during a national-level examination constituted "inhuman treatment" and demonstrated blatant disrespect towards their faith. The organization has urgently called for the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs) against the government officials who enforced this measure at the examination centers.
Addressing the media during a protest outside the district collectorate, HJS coordinator Priyanka Lone condemned the action. "Touching the mangalsutra of Hindu women under the pretext of security checks reflects administrative high-handedness and discrimination," she asserted. Lone further invoked Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the freedom of religion, arguing that the officials' actions directly contravened this fundamental right.
Political Reactions and Safety Concerns
The controversy was initially brought to public attention by Shiv Sena (UBT) politician and former leader of the opposition, Ambadas Danve, on Sunday itself. Danve questioned the BJP-led government over the incident, adding a political dimension to the growing outcry.
Beyond religious sentiments, protesters raised significant concerns regarding women's safety and security. They alleged that candidates were forced to leave their expensive jewellery unattended outside the examination centers, creating a substantial risk of theft and loss.
Key Demands and Threat of Escalation
The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has presented a list of concrete demands to the district administration, including:
- The immediate suspension of the center in-charge and all staff members found responsible for implementing the jewellery removal directive.
- The issuance of a clear, official circular explicitly permitting Hindu religious ornaments—such as mangalsutras, toe rings, nose rings, and bindis—during all future examinations.
- Formal criminal action against the officials involved.
The organization has issued a stern warning, indicating that they will intensify their public agitation if similar incidents occur again. The protest on Tuesday featured slogan-raising and the submission of a comprehensive memorandum to the collector, underscoring the group's resolve to seek accountability and ensure the protection of religious practices during official procedures.
