Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday declared that restrictions on wearing hijab in educational institutions in the state would be lifted from December 23. Addressing the audience at the inauguration of three police stations in Nanjangud, Mysuru district, he emphasised the importance of choices regarding dress and food, stating, "Your choices are yours, and my choices are mine. It's that simple", as quoted by news agency PTI.
Responding to a question about hijab restrictions from the crowd, Siddaramaiah assured, "No (restrictions). You can wear Hijab. I have instructed (the officials) that there will be no restriction from tomorrow onwards. You can wear and eat whatever you want. It's up to you."
"I wear a dhoti and kurta, and you wear pants and a shirt. It's your choice. What's wrong with this?" he asked.
The Chief Minister stressed that no one should indulge in vote bank politics.
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As per PTI, the Chief Minister further went on to criticise the BJP, stating, "They say 'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas' (Cooperation of all, Development of all) but sidelining those wearing caps, burqa and sporting a beard. Is this what they mean?"
Siddaramaiah highlighted the inclusivity of the Congress government's policies, emphasising that it came to power to protect the rights of the poor, backward classes, Dalits, and minorities. He stated firmly, "There is no question of compromising on this."
Referring to the five guarantees of the Karnataka government, the Chief Minister noted that benefits were accessible to people irrespective of caste, religion, or political ideology. He mentioned, "Even BJP supporters are availing the benefits and traveling in the bus free of cost. We never discriminate", as quoted by PTI.
Hijab was prohibited in educational institutions in Karnataka during the BJP government in 2022.
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