It’s Voluntary, Held After School Hours

BANGALORE: Primary and secondary education minister Vishweshwara Hegde Kageri is under fire for allowing Gita Abhiyan in schools across Kolar. In an interview with TOI, the minister defends the programme , saying it is not a government-funded abhiyan and is purely voluntary. Excerpts:
Is the abhiyan temporary? Will it be continued across the state?
First, I want to reiterate that this is not a government programme .This is an abhiyan that Sonda Swarnavalli Mutt has been carrying out since 2007. Therefore, it is not for me to say whether this will continue or not. You should be asking the mutt about it.
How serious are you about continuing it after such opposition?
I have said this government will support all good programmes . We will continue our support for the Gita Abhiyan.
Do you plan to replicate it in government schools or make it mandatory?
There is no such proposal before me at this stage. The issue is before the high court.
Is the abhiyan voluntary? Is it held after school hours?
It is absolutely voluntary. We have made it clear that no academic work should be affected because of the Gita classes. No money has been sanctioned by the government. It is held after school hours.
Why is the government supporting this abhiyan?
What is wrong in someone talking about ethics and values to students? I am personally convinced about the abhiyan . They are preaching what is important to every one of us, irrespective of class and caste. The Gita says do your work honestly. That’s what they are telling students.