Government circulars hinder religious festival celebrations in schools

Religious festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Krishna Janmashtami, and Sharada Utsava face disruptions this year due to a government-sponsored circular.

Despite the countdown for Krishna Janmashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi having begun, organizers have yet to print invitation cards. The hindrance arises from a government order prohibiting non-academic activities on school campuses, which schools are strictly adhering to.

The circular, issued by the Bengaluru School Education Department on February 7, 2013, and December 1, 2023, instructed all district deputy directors of public instruction (DDPI) offices not to permit private events on school premises. The order clearly states that school principals would be held accountable for any violations. This directive was reiterated to schools in July through DDPI and Block Education Officer (BEO) offices.

With Krishna Janmashtami at the end of August and Ganesh Chaturthi in the first week of September, invitations need to be printed. However, when organizers approached school principals and School Development and Monitoring Committees (SDMCs) for permission to use school premises, they were denied. Even inquiries with BEOs and DDPIs resulted in the same response: no permissions would be granted. This has left organizers in a quandary without a confirmed venue.

For several decades, Ganesh Chaturthi and Krishna Janmashtami have been celebrated in school and college grounds across Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and other districts. Committees organize sports and cultural activities for children alongside religious events, often addressing school needs as well.

Despite the lack of official approval, schools and communities have cooperated to hold these events. Celebrations continued even after the 2013 and 2023 circulars were issued. However, this year, a direct reminder to principals and SDMCs has led to reluctance in granting permissions.

In some villages, there are no other public spaces available for such events, making school premises the only option. Organizers usually apply for school permission, offering written assurance of responsibility for any damage to school property. They then obtain permits from local Gram Panchayats and police stations.

Even with strict adherence to safety protocols, if school premises are unavailable, the only remaining option is to halt celebrations, says Taranath, president of Mukkuru Ganeshotsava Committee in Peruvaje village, Sullia taluk.

Ashok Kumar Rai, MLA, Puttur said, “This order was issued during the previous government and continues now. Celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi and Krishna Janmashtami on school premises have been ongoing for decades and can continue. There is no opposition to this. I will discuss this matter with the concerned parties.”

Kaveri B.B., Commissioner, School Education Department, Bengaluru said, “I have no information on this matter. I will review it and respond accordingly.”

Venkatesh Patagar, DDPI, Mangaluru said, “A reminder was sent to all BEOs as per the 2013 and 2023 circulars. This is a routine task. It is our responsibility to follow government directives, which we have done.”