National Anthem Neglect Sparks Legal Row: High Court Issues Notice to Devanahalli School After Students File Petition
Two students of Harrow International School move the Karnataka High Court alleging neglect of the national anthem, shortened Dasara holidays, and other irregularities; court warns parents against creating “ego issues” with institutions.
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court on Wednesday issued notices to the management of Harrow International School in Devanahalli, Bengaluru Rural district, after two students filed a petition alleging that the school neglected the national anthem, curtailed Dasara holidays, and committed several “unethical and improper acts.”
The petition was filed by Anil P. Menasinkai, a resident of Sahakarnagar, on behalf of his children studying in Classes 10 and 12. The case came up for hearing before Justice Suraj Govindaraj.
During the hearing, the court observed that the father appeared to be instilling a “negative attitude” in his children toward the school.
“This seems to be an issue of ego. Today it’s the national anthem, tomorrow it will be something else. Parents cannot expect schools to run according to their whims. If they are unhappy, they can enroll their children elsewhere,” the judge remarked, advising the petitioner’s counsel to offer sensible guidance to his client.
However, the counsel for the petitioner contended that the issue was indeed serious.
“After the students raised objections, the school made the national anthem compulsory and extended the Dasara holidays. Yet, other improper practices persist. The school’s actions violate children’s rights. When complaints were lodged with the Child Rights Commission and local police, the management allegedly threatened to expel the students,” he submitted.
The petition urged the High Court to direct the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) to conduct a detailed investigation and ensure police protection for the students.
After hearing the arguments, the court issued notices to the state government, Child Rights Commission, Bengaluru Rural Superintendent of Police, Vishwanathapura Police Station, and the school management, adjourning the case to November 26 for the next hearing.
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