Karkala: Residential school teacher dismissed for forcing students to remove sacred threads

Karkala: Residential school teacher dismissed for forcing students to remove sacred threads

Mangalore Today News Network

Karkala, Nov 18, 2025: A physical education teacher at the Morarji Desai Residential School in Miyyar was dismissed on Sunday after he allegedly forced students to remove their janivara (sacred thread) and wrist threads, sparking outrage among parents and locals who said such actions could “create divisions between communities.”

The teacher, identified as Madarsa S. Makandar from Kalaburagi, had joined the school as a guest PE instructor in June 2025.

Parents and students alleged that Makandar routinely imposed harsh punishments, including 200 sit-ups, and compelled several boys to remove their janivara and sacred wrist threads worn as part of their religious practice.

They claimed this was not a one-off incident. “He had been warned several times earlier but continued the same behaviour,” parents said while staging a protest on the school premises. Following complaints and public anger, the school principal relieved Makandar of his duties with immediate effect.

Local residents stressed that the Miyyar Morarji Desai Residential School has a strong academic reputation and accommodates students from diverse communities. They expressed concern that such behaviour could disrupt the region’s longstanding religious harmony.

“One religion’s sacred symbol cannot be treated lightly. Forcing students to remove the janivara is deeply hurtful,” locals said, adding that the teacher later claimed he was unaware of its significance. “That is not acceptable.”

Villagers noted that Miyyar has always been known for peaceful coexistence among people of all faiths. “We live with mutual respect. Such behaviour creates cracks between communities. Incidents like this must never be repeated,” they said.