Scarf row: Hadiya's future hinges on PU Department's decision

[email protected] (K.C. Deepika, The Hindu )
March 8, 2012

hadiya
Bangalore, March 8: Little did 17-year-old Hadiya Iqbal, a II Pre-University (PU) student know that her future would look hazy because of a scarf. The student of Jain PU College, Moodbidri, who was denied permission to wear the “hijab” (traditional scarf) by the college authorities, is a nervous wreck.

Barely a week away from the all-important II PU board examinations (which begin on March 15), she neither has an admission ticket to write the exam, nor does she have enough attendance to permit her to do so. All she knows now is that her dream of pursuing LL.B hangs in balance due to her desire to adhere to her religious beliefs. Now, after knocking on several doors for getting permission to write the exam, her future hinges on a letter from the Department of PU Education.

Ms. Iqbal claims that the college management, in response to a question by the local police in September last year, had assured the police of giving her the hall ticket for the March exams. On the basis of this assurance, Ms. Iqbal has been studying at home for the past year, since she attended II PU classes only for the first 10 days.

“Last month, as I had to submit my Computer Science record books, I called the college. This was when I was told that I cannot submit the records; nor can I write the exams as I don't have enough attendance,” said the Commerce student. The college authorities now insist that she should get a letter from the PU Department permitting her to write the exam. “The department has not responded yet. Time is running out and I am in a dilemma,” said Ms. Iqbal, over phone from Moodbidri.

'Uniformity needed'

However, the management of the college stood by its stand. Abhijith M., secretary of the DJV Sangha, which manages Jain PU College, said that the “burkha” and the “hijab” were fine inside the campus, but not inside the classroom. “Several girls come to college in “burkhas”, but remove them as soon as they are in class. The reason why we are saying this is because we want to maintain uniformity within the classroom,” he added.

The response from the PU Department was more heartening.

A PU official, on condition of anonymity, said that the department was reviewing Ms. Iqbal's request, and a decision is likely to be taken keeping her interest in mind. “Such requests (for permission to write exams in special cases) have been heeded to in the past as well,” the official added.


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News Network
September 17,2024

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Mangaluru: In an act of extraordinary selflessness, a young lecturer and mother, Archana Kamath, tragically passed away just days after donating a portion of her liver to a relative. She was 33.

Archana, who had devoted her career to shaping young minds as a lecturer at Canara College and most recently at Manel Srinivasa Nayak MBA College, was a loving mother to a four-year-old boy. Her sudden passing has left her family, students, and colleagues reeling in shock and grief.

The story of her untimely demise began when a relative of her husband, CA Chethan Kumar, required a life-saving liver transplant. 

With no other matching donors in sight, Archana stepped forward, her heart full of compassion. Her blood type matched, and without hesitation, she made the brave decision to donate a part of her liver—an act that would ultimately cost her life.

The surgery, performed 12 days ago in Bengaluru, seemed successful. Archana appeared to recover well and was discharged, bringing hope and relief to her loved ones. 

But just days after returning home, she suddenly fell ill and passed away on September 15 in a Mangaluru hospital. The cause of her sudden decline remains a mystery, compounding the sorrow of those who knew and loved her.

Her final act of love saved a life—the relative who received her liver is said to be recovering well. But Archana’s loss is felt deeply by her husband and their young son, who are now left to navigate a world without her warmth and strength.

As family and friends grapple with this tragic turn of events, Archana’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her as a caring educator, devoted mother, and a woman whose ultimate sacrifice was made out of love.

The full story of her passing is still unfolding, and her untimely death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew her.
 

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News Network
September 19,2024

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Mangaluru, Sep 19: Following the recent Nipah virus-related fatalities in Kerala, health authorities in Dakshina Kannada are taking proactive measures to monitor for potential cases of monkey fever. While typically found in African countries, monkey fever has raised concerns within the district, prompting increased vigilance.

To ensure early detection, travelers arriving at Mangaluru’s international airport and local ports will undergo health screenings. Additionally, a dedicated ambulance has been placed on standby for any emergent cases, and Wenlock Hospital has set aside a special ward with six reserved beds specifically for monkey fever patients.

"We currently have no confirmed cases of monkey fever in Dakshina Kannada, and there are no direct orders from the state government," said Dr. Timmaiah, the District Health Officer. "However, we are taking preventive measures, including continuous screening of incoming passengers. A special meeting is also being planned to discuss future action steps."

Dr. Timmaiah further highlighted the rise in general viral infections following the region's recent shift in weather patterns. "With the decline in rainfall, we are seeing an uptick in viral cases, particularly fevers accompanied by cough, cold, and throat pain, especially in children. Though Mangaluru has experienced mostly sunny weather, occasional rain at night has contributed to the spread of illnesses. It’s crucial for the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures."

Health officials are urging residents to seek timely medical advice and follow recommended precautions to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.

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News Network
September 25,2024

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In a significant development, a special court tasked with handling cases against Members of Parliament and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MP/MLAs) has ordered that a First Information Report (FIR) be filed regarding the Muda case.

Additionally, the Karnataka Lokayukta, which is an anti-corruption body, has been tasked with investigating allegations against Siddaramaiah, who is reportedly involved in the case.

The court instructed the Lokayukta (an anti-corruption authority) to provide a report within three months. It also ordered the relevant authorities to file a First Information Report (FIR) regarding the case.

Judge Santhosh Gajanan Bhat issued the directive, compelling the Mysuru Lokayukta police to commence an investigation following a formal complaint lodged by Snehamayi Krishna. 

The Karnataka Lokayukta in Mysuru is required to carry out the investigation under Section 156 (3) of the Criminal Procedure Code, which mandates the registration of a First Information Report (FIR).

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