Atheist teacher gets backing from High Court
Can refusal to fold hands during prayer be called indiscipline, asks Bench
Mumbai, September 7, 2013
Updated: September 7, 2013 03:15 IST
Staff Reporter
Nashik-based teacher Sanjay Salve, who refused to fold his hands during religious prayers at his school, has found support from the Bombay High Court. How can a state-funded school term this indiscipline, asked a Division Bench on Friday.
The Bench of Justices Abhay Oka and Revati Mohite Dhere was hearing a writ petition filed by Mr. Salve against the schools managing committee.
The Hindu had reported the teachers six-year fight against the school management. The Savitribai Phule Secondary School had withheld Mr. Salves increments as he refused to participate in the daily prayer. Mr. Salves argument is that he is an atheist and that compulsory prayer goes against the Constitution. (Pray, what wrong did I do, asks atheist teacher, The Hindu, September 1).
The managements lawyer argued that prayers are part and parcel of value education. Can there be any objection to imparting value education, he asked. The Bench observed that the case would stand only if Mr. Salve showed disrespect while others were praying.
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/atheist-teacher-gets-backing-from-high-court/article5101661.ece
No decision yet. The hearing continues September 20.