Bengaluru: Karnataka Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa faced criticism after instructing authorities to take action against a student who claimed the minister “does not know Kannada.” The incident occurred during the launch of a free online coaching program for students preparing for competitive exams like CET, JEE, and NEET.
The Incident
In a video conference attended by over 25,000 students, a voice from the crowd remarked, “The Education Minister does not know Kannada.” Responding immediately in Kannada, Mr. Bangarappa retorted, “What? Who is it? Am I speaking Urdu?”
The visibly irked minister labeled the comment as “stupid” and demanded the Block Education Officer (BEO) and teachers identify the student and take serious action. “I cannot sit quietly,” he added.
Political Fallout
The minister’s reaction has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, with the Opposition accusing him of suppressing free expression. The Karnataka BJP’s official handle shared a satirical cartoon with the caption, “You call the questioner stupid while encouraging bold questions.”
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi also joined the debate, posting on X:
“Hadn’t Madhu Bangarappa publicly admitted that he doesn’t know Kannada?? Why is the @INCKarnataka punishing the student who reminded him of this? What else can be expected from Congress?”
Broader Implications
The controversy has ignited a debate over freedom of speech in educational settings, with critics accusing the Congress-led government of overreach. Proponents argue that respect for authority in academic forums must be upheld, while others view the minister’s response as disproportionate.
The student’s identity and the specific consequences of the minister’s orders are yet to be confirmed.
