Ruckus in US over Bible, why are parents opposing teaching it in schools?

Bible controversy in America: In June 2024, Education Department officials in the US state of Oklahoma ordered that teaching the Bible in schools will be mandatory from now on. State Education Minister Ryan Walters, who comes from the Republican Party, said that this rule will apply to everyone and everyone will have to follow it strictly. This rule implemented in Oklahoma was for children between 11 and 18 years of age. In this way they are being taught about the holy book of Christianity in school.
According to the BBC report, similarly in Louisiana, the Governor signed a law, under which it was made mandatory to display ten religious rules in all schools. However, gradually voices of protest have started being raised against the rules of the state government. Some parents, teachers and religious leaders in Oklahoma approached the court to stop this rule. he/she has said that the rules implemented by the government on schools should be banned.

What is said in the petition?

The petition filed in the court against the government’s order demands that the state should not put pressure on schools to teach Bible. Also, the expenditure of about 3 million dollars being given by Education Minister Walters to buy Bibles should also be stopped. The petition said that this rule violates the Constitution of Oklahoma because it is using government money to promote a religious text.

One religion is being given priority over other religions. Many civil rights organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union and the Freedom from Religion Foundation are involved in this case. However, this is not the first lawsuit challenging the government’s rule. A similar lawsuit was filed in June and is currently pending in Mays County.

What is the reason for the Bible’s conflict?

The impact of the controversial decision to teach the Bible in Oklahoma schools is not just limited to schools. The lawsuit filed by parents, teachers and civil rights organizations has reignited debate over the issue of separation of religion and state. The question is also arising whether the state should spend money on teaching religious things. Education Minister Ryan Walters stands firm on his/her decision and claims it is important for understanding American history and culture.

In such a situation, the state finds itself at a crossroads with educational policy on one side and constitutional rights on the other. The outcome of these lawsuits could set a precedent for religious freedom and education practices in schools across the country.