In a pivotal move, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of Karnataka declared the withdrawal of the ban on wearing hijab in educational institutions on Friday. The ban, enacted during the previous BJP administration, has been a source of contention, sparking protests and legal battles.
Siddaramaiah affirmed that he has instructed officials to rescind the order, underscoring the freedom of women to wear the hijab and move freely. Speaking at a gathering in Mysore, the Chief Minister stated, "Hijab ban isn't there anymore. (Women) can wear hijab and go anywhere... How you dress and what you eat is your choice. Why should I obstruct you?"
In addition to announcing the policy reversal, Siddaramaiah criticized the previous BJP government, alleging that it had fostered divisions among people based on clothing, dress, and caste.
The hijab controversy gained prominence when six students at the Government Pre-University College for Girls in Udupi were barred from entering their classrooms wearing the hijab, prompting protests in December 2021. The demonstrations spread across the state, affecting educational campuses in coastal and Malnad districts.
The erstwhile BJP government had issued a circular prohibiting hijabs in schools and pre-university colleges in the state. The matter reached the Karnataka High Court, which upheld the government's decision. Subsequently, the Supreme Court, following a split verdict by a two-judge bench, hinted at considering the establishment of a three-judge bench to adjudicate the matter.
The decision to revoke the hijab ban signifies a significant step in addressing concerns and controversies surrounding religious attire in educational institutions in Karnataka. The move aligns with principles of personal choice and the preservation of freedom of expression.