In a fast-escalating controversy over religious freedom and examination protocols, the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has ordered the dismissal of Chandrashekara Biradara, Principal of Sai Spoorthi PU College in Bidar and second division clerk Satish Pawar.

This came after the duo allegedly denied a KCET candidate, Suchivrata Kulkarni, permission to appear for the mathematics paper on Thursday (17 April) for wearing a sacred thread (Janeu) similar to the incident in Shivamogga.

Acting on an interim report by Bidar Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Sharma, the KEA and Karnataka higher education department directed the action.

The officials were found negligent in following KEA guidelines, which allow non-metallic sacred threads during the examination. The report also stated that college staff made derogatory remarks towards the student.

Despite being barred from the maths paper, Kulkarni was allowed to take the physics and chemistry papers on 16 April at the same centre while wearing the sacred thread, raising questions about inconsistent enforcement. The report recommended disciplinary action and remedial support for the student.

An education official said, “The student would receive a ranking for engineering courses despite missing the mathematics exam, pending discussions with Higher Education Minister Dr M C Sudhakar. Further, the minister will take up the matter with the chief minister before deciding on the re-examination, to ensure fairness for all and justice to the student.”