- 24 September, 2025
Hubli, Karnataka, 24 Sept, 2025 – A group allegedly linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) forcibly entered Sacred Heart Convent School in Keshwapur, Hubli, on Wednesday morning, demanding the immediate suspension of classes for the Dasara festival. The incident, which occurred at around 10:30 AM, disrupted regular school activities and raised concerns over religious sensitivities, institutional autonomy, and law and order in Karnataka’s education system.
Incident Overview
Eyewitnesses reported that about 20–25 individuals, claiming RSS affiliation, entered the premises without authorisation, according to TCO News. Led by local activists, they pressed the school to halt classes immediately to honour Dasara (also called Dussehra or Vijayadashami), a major Hindu festival symbolising the victory of good over evil.
Karnataka’s Department of Public Instruction has set September 22 to October 2, 2025, as the official holiday period for Navratri and Durga Puja, with schools to reopen on October 3. Despite this, the group argued that holding classes on September 24 was disrespectful to Hindu traditions.
“They barged into the administrative office, raising slogans and demanding a holiday on the spot,” said a teacher, who requested anonymity for safety reasons. “The situation was tense, and students and staff were caught off guard. The group accused convent schools of ignoring Hindu festivals.”
The management explained they were following the state’s schedule, but the confrontation reportedly continued for nearly an hour. Students were sent back to classrooms, and some parents were asked to collect their children early as a precaution.
Authorities’ Intervention
Police from Keshwapur Station arrived to de-escalate tensions. “We ensured the safety of students and staff,” said Inspector Ramesh Patil. “We are coordinating with the school management and investigating the incident. No formal complaint has been filed, but we will act if necessary.”
The District Education Officer, Hubli, reminded all schools to strictly follow the state calendar. “Any deviation will be addressed according to regulations,” the statement noted, without naming the incident.
Pattern of Incidents
This is not the first instance of RSS or its affiliates targeting missionary schools in Karnataka. In 1998, Bajrang Dal members stormed Sacred Heart Convent in Hubli and Cluny Convent in Bangalore, accusing them of promoting Christianity and discouraging Hindu practices. Similar incidents have recurred, particularly around festivals.
In 2019, protests erupted when some schools held classes during Dasara holidays, and in 2021, RSS activists disrupted a naming ceremony in Hubli, alleging links to religious conversion. The RSS also holds annual Vijayadashami marches in Hubli, reinforcing its presence during the season.
The confrontation has divided opinion. Some parents and residents supported the demand, insisting schools should fully respect Hindu festivals. “Dasara is for celebration. Schools should not be open when the state is observing the festival,” said Anil Kumar, a local parent.
Others criticised the intrusion. “Forcing entry and disrupting classes is not the way to resolve issues,” said Maria D’Souza, whose daughter studies at the school. “The school followed the government calendar. This was frightening for children.”
Political leaders responded cautiously. The Karnataka Education Ministry declined to comment directly, while the opposition urged an inquiry. “No group can take the law into its own hands. Schools are spaces of learning, not conflict,” said Priya Shetty, Congress leader.
Wider Impact
The incident has reignited debate on religious freedom, minority rights, and cultural nationalism in Karnataka’s education sector. Missionary schools often face criticism for their detachment from Hindu customs, while critics of the RSS argue such confrontations threaten the secular character of education.
Sacred Heart Convent School has not issued a formal statement but is reportedly working with authorities to maintain safety and compliance with regulations. Sources indicate that classes will continue as per the government holiday calendar.
Authorities have increased security in Hubli schools during the festive period to prevent further disruptions. Both Hindu and Christian leaders have appealed for dialogue to ease tensions.
The episode highlights the fragile balance between cultural pride and institutional independence in Karnataka’s diverse society, as investigations continue and communities seek to restore calm.
Source: TCO News
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