Key Takeaways
- The hijab ban in Karnataka schools is being lifted, sparking debate over secular education.
- BJP leaders warn the move could create a religious divide among students.
- The state government argues the decision respects personal choice and aims for inclusivity.
- Opposition groups are prepared for a court battle to challenge the policy.
Bengaluru: Karnataka BJP President Vijayendra Yediyurappa on Saturday said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah‘s decision to withdraw the hijab ban in educational institutions raises concerns about the secular nature of educational institutions.
He also stated that the Siddaramaiah government is promoting dividing young minds along religious lines by allowing religious attire in educational institutions.
Vijayendra said it is crucial to prioritise education over divisive practices and foster an environment, where students can focus on academics without the influence of religious practices.
“CM Siddaramaiah’s decision to withdraw the hijab ban in educational institutions raises concerns about the secular nature of our educational institutions.
By allowing religious attire in educational institutions, the @siddaramaiah govt is promoting dividing young minds along religious lines, potentially hindering the inclusive learning environment.
“It’s crucial to prioritise education over divisive practices and foster an environment where students can focus on academics without the influence of religious practices,” he posted on X.
Udupi BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna, who was at the forefront during the hijab controversy last year, said his party is prepared to wage a court battle if the Siddaramaiah government lifts the hijab ban in educational institutions.
He also stated that it would be like hitting a stone beehive if the government lifted the hijab ban and also created a rift among the students on religious lines. “We are ready to ready to fight the decision legally,” he said.
Suvarna also said the Congress government is making such statements as it has been in a state of confusion for the past six months due to its failures. “The state government is trying to divert people’s attention,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hindu Jana Jagruti Samiti leader Mohan Gowda questioned the Siddaramaiah government for its plan to lift the hijab ban in educational institutions when the Supreme Court is seized of the matter.
“Congress is trying to appease Muslims by such a decision. When the matter is pending in the court, what is the need for such an order? It is an insult to the judiciary. This decision will again pave the way for a religious rift among the students,” he said.
On Friday, CM Siddaramaiah announced his government’s plans to lift the hijab ban in educational institutions in the state. He said the choice of clothing and food is personal.
Siddaramaiah said on X Friday that he has “told to withdraw the hijab ban”, and his government does not discriminate among the people.
