Durban, South Africa — A disturbing incident of alleged religious intolerance has surfaced from Drakensburg Secondary School in KwaZulu-Natal, where a teacher reportedly cut a sacred thread (raksha sutra) from the wrist of a Hindu student, triggering widespread condemnation and calls for accountability.
The South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) has strongly denounced the educator’s action, describing it as “insensitive and irresponsible.” According to a statement released by the organisation, the act violates the religious freedoms of the learner and reflects a deeper issue of cultural disregard within the school’s policies.
“The SAHMS strongly condemns the insensitive and irresponsible action of an educator cutting off a religious string from a Hindu learner,” the statement read.
The sacred thread — commonly worn by Hindus for religious protection and spiritual significance — was reportedly removed forcibly, which has outraged members of the Hindu community across South Africa.
SAHMS further stated that the school has a known policy banning the wearing of religious or cultural insignia, raising concerns about systemic marginalization of minority traditions in public institutions.
The organization revealed that the student has chosen to remain silent, fearing further discrimination or retaliation. This has hindered formal investigation efforts, although community members are urging the authorities to ensure protection and anonymity for the affected learner.
Commissioner Raj Govender of the Cultural, Religious, and Language (CRL) Rights Commission, himself of Indian origin, expressed deep concern over the incident. Speaking to the media, he said:
“If the allegations are true, this teacher has grossly abused her position. She has deviated from her role as an educator. Schools must adapt their policies to accommodate the religious and cultural expressions of minorities.”
Govender urged those whose rights have been infringed to reach out to the Commission and emphasized the need for neutrality and cultural sensitivity among educators.
