(July 07, 2011) A group of people led by a man claiming to be a leader of a national
party stormed inside a Catholic school in Belgaum, Karnataka, demanding admission
for two of his friend’s children. About 50 people entered the St Joseph’s Canosian
Convent School and abused the teachers and management of the institution on Monday.
According to school authorities, the person claiming to be a BJP leader, along with
his supporters, arrived at the school in three jeeps. After forcing his entry inside
the school premises, he started abusing the staff and nuns there. The man kept repeating
that “I belong to the ruling party and you must admit two of my friend’s children
in the school or else I shall not spare your school.” School Principal Sister Thankam
called the members of the Parents Teachers Association and also sought police help.
The man and his followers left after the police arrived. “He has been threatening
us since last couple of days for admissions and had come to the school thrice threatening
the office staff and Sister Elsa, the principal for the primary section, of dire consequences,”
said Sister Thankam. She also urged the police authorities to take stringent action
against the miscreants. Zila Parishad member Ganesh Hukkeri too called on the sisters
and assured the matter will be taken up with higher authorities. The 120-year-old
premises houses nuns, girl students belonging to St Joseph’s English and Kannada schools.