The BJP in the state has objected to a change of slogan by renowned kannada poet Kuvempu that was painted at the entrances of government schools and colleges  in Karnataka. this alteration ignited fresh debate within and outside the legislative assembly. With some BJP leaders accusing the Siddaramaiah led-congress government of influencing children’s minds. 

The original motto is ‘’This is the temple of knowledge, entre with folded hands’’. The school motto has now been altered to ‘’This is the temple of knowledge, question courageously’. the BJP members in both the Houses condemned the change of the slogan. BJP members raised the circular of Social Welfare Department Principal Secretary P. Manivannan in both Houses on Monday and insisted that the government should give an answer now. An incident took place in the legislative council also where the members demanded the government's answer. 

BJPs Leaders condemned over change of slogan

BJP leader Basavaraj Bommai stated that, instead of fostering a conducive learning environment. The Congress party is trying to create conflict in the minds of the students, congress was politicising the educational spaces. Further he said that schools are centres of learning and it’s okay for children to raise question. Further he said that, the government should not plant the seeds of conflict in the minds of children. 

BJP state president BY Vijayendra said that a senior IAS officers had been coerced to issue an oral directive, reflecting the party’s influence. Schools are pure places, But the Congress anti-Hindu mentality has forced a senior IAS officers to issue an oral order in this regard, Further he said, The government will have to face the consequences if it doesn’t change back to the previous motto and if disciplinary action is not taken against the officials behind this order, he charged

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minirster clarified that the Congress had given due respect to Kuvempu and promoted the thought of Sarva Janangada Shantiya Thota. The BJP has no work and that is why they are trying to find such mistakes. They don’t think people’s livelihood, but only about sentiments to destroy society.