Karnataka Hijab Row: 'Why only hijab, what about ghoonghat, turban or cross?' lawyers in HC

The petitioners challenging restriction on hijab in Karnataka schools and colleges in Karnataka High Court on Wednesday said that the government and colleges were selective picking on hijab. Why is hijab being single out and Muslim students are being asked to choose between faith and education, the lawyer for Muslim girls argued in the court.

The petitioners pointed out that “Hindu girls wearing bangles and Christian girls wearing cross are not sent out". What about ghoonghat, turban or cross? the petitioners asked the court. The court deferred the hearing for Thursday.

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Alleging discrimination against Muslim girls purely based on religion, the students' lawyer also underlined that “no other religious symbol is considered in the government Order."

Controversy over hijab has been simmering in Karnataka for over a month. A number of schools and colleges have been denying entry to Muslims girls coming in hijab.

Chaos prevailed on Wednesday in several pre-university colleges in Karnataka, which were opened on Wednesday after remaining shut for a week owing to the Hijab row, as the Burqa-clad Muslim students were not let in.

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The High Court, in its interim order pending consideration of all petitions related to the hijab row, last week restrained the students from wearing saffron shawls, scarves, hijab and any religious flag within the classroom.