Hijab row: Bengaluru police ban protests, gatherings near educational institutions
In wake of the escalating tensions in Karnataka over wearing a hijab (headscarf) in educational institutions, the Bengaluru/bengaluru-police'>Bengaluru Police have banned protests and gatherings near schools and colleges in the city for two weeks. The order comes as violent protests were witnessed at several places over the issue. Notably, prohibitory orders were also imposed in southern Karnataka's Shivamogga town on Tuesday.
Why does this story matter?
Protests over headscarves have been ongoing in Karnataka for the past several weeks. The agitation had begun at a government college in Udupi when six women students were barred from attending classes for wearing hijabs. It has since spread to parts of Karnataka as well as several other states. The state government maintains that all students should abide by the school's dress code.
Ban to stay in place for two weeks
"Gatherings, agitations or protest of any type within the area of 200-meter radius from the gate(s) of schools, PU colleges, degree colleges or other similar educational institutions in Bengaluru city, prohibited for two weeks with immediate effect," a notice from the Karnataka Police read.
15 people arrested so far
Meanwhile, at least 15 people have been arrested in connection with the violence that broke out on Tuesday in several regions over the hijab row. Four people were injured and a police vehicle was vandalized during the protests in Shivamogga. State Home Minister Araga Jnanedra confirmed the arrests, adding that there is an attempt to ignite a fire on the matter.
Schools, colleges shut across state
On Tuesday, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai had ordered all high schools and colleges to remain closed for the next three days in wake of the tensions that have emerged. "I appeal to all the students, teachers and management of schools and colleges as well as people of Karnataka to maintain peace and harmony," CM Bommai said in a post on Twitter.
Karnataka HC refers case to larger bench
The Karnataka High Court, which is hearing petitions on the issue, on Wednesday referred the case to a larger bench. "These matters give rise to certain constitutional questions of seminal importance in view of certain aspects of personal law," Justice Krishna Dixit said during the hearing. The new panel will likely be led by the Chief Justice of the High Court.
Congress, BJP leaders weigh in
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has voiced support for the protesting women. "Whether it is a bikini, a ghoonghat, a pair of jeans or a hijab, it is a woman's right to decide what she wants to wear." Amit Malviya of the Bharatiya Janata Party tweeted a contrasting view. "Young girls, in the name of faith, are being asked to choose hijab over education."
