VHP slams Karnataka govt over hijab move, warns of campus tensions

VHP slams Karnataka govt over hijab move, warns of campus tensions

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, May 20, 2026: VHP provincial co-secretary Sharan Pumpwell criticised the Karnataka government over reports of allowing hijab again in educational institutions.

Speaking in Mangaluru, he said that the previous BJP government had imposed restrictions on hijab in schools and colleges in the interest of uniformity and equality. He alleged that the present Congress government had reintroduced the practice for “vote-bank politics” and termed it an act of appeasement.

Pumpwell further claimed that if hijab is permitted, students may start attending institutions wearing saffron shawls, and said that VHP and Bajrang Dal would extend support to such students.

He warned that if conflicts arise in schools and colleges over the issue, the state government would be responsible, and urged the government to withdraw the decision.

Action Against SDPI Leader for ‘Provocative Speech’: VHP

Vishwa Hindu Parishad provincial co-secretary Sharan Pumpwell has urged the police to take action against an Social Democratic Party of India leader for allegedly delivering a provocative speech during an Urs programme near Gudinabail in Bantwal.

Addressing a press conference in Mangaluru, Sharan Pumpwell alleged that the SDPI leader had stated that consuming beef was “their right” and had allegedly encouraged people not to remain silent if questioned over it, but to respond “in their own way,” thereby provoking communal tension.

Pumpwell said that the state has a law banning cow slaughter and added that organisations also have the legal right to oppose violations of the law. He demanded that the police register a suo motu case against the SDPI leader for making inflammatory remarks.

‘True Harmony Will Come Through Respect for Hindu Sentiments’: Sharan Pumpwell

VHP leader Sharan Pumpwell said that communal harmony cannot be achieved merely by inviting Hindus to Iftar gatherings and serving snacks and juice.

Addressing a press conference in Mangaluru, he said that true harmony would be reflected if festivals are celebrated while respecting the religious sentiments of other communities.

Referring to Bakrid celebrations, Pumpwell urged members of the Muslim community not to slaughter cows in the name of Qurbani, stating that the cow is deeply revered by Hindus. He said such gestures would promote genuine communal harmony.