In a significant move, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has declared that there will be no ban on hijab in the state’s educational institutions. Speaking at an event, he expressed the government’s decision to withdraw the hijab ban previously imposed by the BJP government, stating that an official order to this effect would be issued soon.
“We will be withdrawing the ban on hijab imposed by the previous BJP government. An official order will come soon regarding it,” announced Siddaramaiah, highlighting the government’s commitment to individual freedom in matters of personal attire. He emphasized that personal choices, including clothing and dietary preferences, should not be subject to government intervention.
“What to wear and what to eat is a personal choice. Why should the government obstruct such issues? Wear what you want and eat what you feel like. I wear Dhoti, and you wear a shirt with pants. What is wrong with that?” questioned the Chief Minister, underlining the importance of respecting individual choices.
The hijab controversy first emerged in January last year when six students from the Government Pre-University (PU) College in Udupi accused the institute’s administration of denying them entry while wearing hijab. The incident sparked protests, with Muslim girls demonstrating against the restrictions.
In a response that gained attention, several Hindu students began attending classes wearing saffron shawls in various educational institutions, symbolizing a show of solidarity. The matter reached the Karnataka High Court, which, on March 15 last year, declared that wearing the hijab was not mandatory in Islam and upheld the executive order.
Subsequently, the students involved in the case approached the Supreme Court, which delivered a split verdict. The ongoing debate on the hijab ban is now scheduled to be reviewed by a larger bench in the Supreme Court, bringing the matter back into the public discourse.
Siddaramaiah’s announcement reflects a shift in the state’s stance, signaling a reevaluation of policies regarding religious attire in educational institutions and reaffirming the principles of personal freedom and choice. The forthcoming official order is anticipated to provide clarity and guidance on the matter across Karnataka’s educational landscape.
