Bengaluru, Apr 25 (Reporter) Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly R Ashoka has approached the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), alleging violation of religious freedom during the recently held Common Entrance Test (CET) in the State. In a post on social media platform X, Ashoka claimed that several students were compelled to remove sacred symbols such as the Janivara (Yajnopavita) and Shivadara at various examination centres, terming the incidents a violation of personal faith and religious liberty. "On April 23, I submitted a complaint to the NHRC regarding the infringement of personal beliefs by Karnataka government, where students were forced to remove sacred religious symbols during the CET at multiple centres," he stated. Urging the Commission to take "prompt and appropriate action", Ashoka asserted that such actions could harm the dignity and future prospects of students. The complaint follows an allegation made by Suchivrat Kulkarni, a student who claimed he was denied entry to the CET Mathematics examination at Sai Spoorthi PU College in Bidar on April 17 for refusing to remove his sacred thread. Kulkarni said he pleaded with authorities for 45 minutes but was eventually turned away. "I requested them repeatedly, but they insisted I cut or remove the Janeu. I had to return home without appearing for the exam. I now seek either a re-examination or admission in a government college," he said. His mother, Neeta Kulkarni, alleged that her son was denied entry solely on religious grounds and appealed to the government to ensure justice, including financial assistance for his further education. Shivamogga Deputy Commissioner Gurudatta Hegde confirmed that an FIR had been registered in a similar case in the district. He said two home guards deployed at the CET centre had been suspended for behaviour deemed insensitive to religious sentiments. "CCTV footage has been reviewed and statements collected from students and officials. The lapse was due to a lack of awareness among the personnel on duty. An inquiry is underway," he said. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi had earlier condemned the incident, describing it as "highly objectionable". He said, "This reflects the mindset of a pseudo-secular government. Authorities must provide a solution for the affected student." Meanwhile, Karnataka Higher Education Minister Dr MC Sudhakar termed the incident unfortunate, clarifying that there were no official instructions to remove religious symbols during the CET. "This was not part of the examination protocol. We respect all faiths. Action will be taken against those found responsible," he said...////...