Rajasthan Contemplating a Hijab Ban in Educational Institutions

Jaipur- The ongoing controversy surrounding the Hijab in Rajasthan has garnered attention, particularly with the recent statements from Education Minister Madan Dilawar. Amidst the heated discussions, Dilawar emphasized the mandatory adherence to prescribed dress codes for students attending government schools. He underscored that conversions within the school premises would not be strictly allowed.

On Tuesday, Dilawar clarified his stance on the Hijab issue, stating that he neither supports nor opposes it. Instead, he highlighted the importance of following the government's prescribed dress codes in schools. He asserted that officers would conduct inspections to ensure compliance, and strict actions would be taken against those who do not adhere to the norms.

The controversy in Jaipur escalated when Muslim girls from the Gangapole school protested, blocking roads and demonstrating at the Subash Chowk police station. This protest followed a visit by MLA Baba BalMukund Acharya to their school, where he questioned the girls wearing Hijab, expressing concerns about the impact on the atmosphere. He suggested removing the Hijab, stating that it disrupts the environment.

Agriculture Minister Kirodilal Meena joined the debate, advocating for a ban on Hijab not only in government schools but also in all madrasas and private schools. Meena argued that the Hijab tradition, introduced by Mughal aggressors, is now even unacceptable in Islamic countries. He stressed the need for uniformity in attire and dress codes, comparing it to the dress code enforced in the police department.

Meena's argument echoed Acharya's observation of two different atmospheres within the school based on the presence or absence of Hijab. Meena questioned the acceptance of Burqas and Hijabs in the country, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established rules and regulations. He said he would speak to CM Bhajan Lal Sharma and request for a blanket ban on Hijabs in schools and strict compliance of uniform dress code.

As the discussions unfold, it remains to be seen how the government's directives and orders regarding dress codes in schools will be implemented, and whether any further actions or decisions will be taken in response to the ongoing controversy.

Karnataka Hijab Row

In December 2021, a controversy erupted in Karnataka regarding the wearing of the Hijab in educational institutions. In the Udupi district, six Muslim students were denied entry to college due to their wearing of the Hijab. The then ruling BJP government issued a circular mandating pre-university colleges to adhere to a dress code.

All six students knocked on the doors of the Karnataka High Court, which upheld the state government's decision. The case was subsequently challenged in the Supreme Court. In December 2023, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that he had instructed officials not to impose a ban on wearing the Hijab.

Baba BalMukund Acharya: A History of Stirring Controversies in Past Engagements

It is worth noting that in December 2023, a case was filed against BJP MLA Balamukund Acharya in Peethavas village, accusing him of assaulting and spitting on a person belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community.

The complainant, Surajmal Rager, alleged that BJP MLA Balamukund Acharya, also known as Sanjay Sharma, attempted to illegally encroach upon his land and physically assaulted him in the process.

In connection with the same incident, a complaint was also lodged against Balamukund Acharya in the National Human Rights Commission for violating street vendor laws. This incident occurred when the legislator toured the Hawamahal area immediately after winning election and directed Muslim vendors to close their shops.