Christian Missionary School in Karnataka Forces Students To Throw Rakhis Into Garbage Cans: Report

A dispute erupted over the alleged forcible removal of wristbands attached to some kids and disposal of them in the trash can at a Christian missionary school in Mangaluru, according to Press Trust of India.
After the reported event, some of the students' parents and a few Hindu activists went to the Infant Mary English Medium High School in Katipalla on Friday to voice their concerns. To help stabilise the situation, the police also arrived.

When the school had no issue with "Friendship Day," the parents were incensed and demanded to know what harm there was in permitting "Raksha Bandhan."

"Vandaneeya" Santosh Lobo, the institution's head, told the parents he was unaware of the development but added that he always favoured "Raksha Bandhan" because it is a nice tradition.

"A good tradition is Raksha Bandhan. My wrist used to be bound with bands by Hindu brethren. I'm a newbie here. Just two months ago, I arrived. I used to have rakhi tied on my wrist in Kasaragod for six years (in Kerala). With that, we were content. Please do not misinterpret the circumstances, "He stated.

Raksha Bandhan can be celebrated in his institution and no one can complain to it, Mr. Lobo informed the parents and campaigners. I'll phone those kids and let them know that tying rakhi is completely OK, he said.

An incidence occurred without my knowledge. On Thursday at nine o'clock, a policeman arrived and informed me of one such event. We live in a peaceful society, and we don't allow offending the religious feelings of people of other faiths, so I was astonished, Mr. Lobo added.

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