Karnataka bandh on examination day, concern among students and parents

 The statewide Karnataka Bandh called by pro-Kannada organizations on Saturday has left students and parents anxious, as several school examinations are scheduled for the same day. Despite the bandh announcement, the Education Department has yet to take a decision, causing confusion among parents about whether exams will be conducted as planned. The examinations include the Nali-Kali assessment for grades 1 to 3, a mathematics exam for grades 4 and 5, and another mathematics exam for grades 6 to 8. Private schools may conduct exams for different subjects based on their schedules. If the exams proceed as planned, students may face transportation issues due to the bandh, raising concerns about who will take responsibility for their inconvenience. This has increased pressure on the Education Department to make a timely decision. The Parents’ Association has already opposed holding the bandh on an exam day, stating that it will cause unnecessary hardship for students. Shashikumar, the General Secretary of the Private Schools Management Association (CAMS), also expressed concerns. He emphasized that while they support the cause of Kannada language and culture, postponing exams is not an option since the dates were pre-decided. With growing opposition from parents and school authorities, all eyes are on the Education Department’s response, as students and parents await clarity on the situation.