Bengaluru: In the Karnataka High Court, a new plea has been filed, requesting that hijab be permitted in educational institutions on Fridays and during the holy month of Ramzan. The bench that is hearing a slew of petitions challenging the hijab ban has agreed to take it into account.
The High Court has issued an interim injunction prohibiting religious dress in schools and colleges until a decision is made on whether headscarves can be worn. Many Muslim girls and young women have been forced to stay at home due to the state’s insistence on enforcing it, creating concerns for their education.
In the ongoing debate over the issue, may have pointed out that along with freedom of religion, the right to education is also a fundamental right.
Appearing on behalf of Muslim girls in the state, petitioner Dr Vinod Kulkarni said, “As part of Interim relief I am claiming that pass an order to let Muslim girls sport Hijab at least on Friday, on Juma day, most auspicious day for Muslims and the holy month of Ramzan, which is coming soon”.
When Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi pointed out that his request is contradictory to his undertaking that Muslim girls will wear whatever uniform is prescribed, Dr Kulkarni said, “Hijab is part of the uniform”.
When Dr Kulkarni contended that banning hijab “amounts to banning Quran”, the judge exclaimed that it was a “bit far-fetched”.
There is an ongoing debate on whether hijab has been recommended by the Quran. Asked by the Chief Justice whether he can show where in Quran this is stated, Dr Kulkarni responded, “I am a devout Brahmin myself… my submission is it may amount to the banning of Quran. My submission is that please pass an order today to allow wearing of hijab on Friday and ensuing Ramzan”.
“You want them to be allowed hijab on Fridays? We will consider what you argue,” the Chief Justice replied.
The hearing will continue tomorrow.
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