Karnataka Hijab Row: BJP Questions 'Secular Nature' Of Educational Spaces

Defending the lifting of hijab ban in the state, Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge said, whatever Karnataka government was doing was as per the law and framework of the Constitution.

The Karnataka BJP criticised Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's decision to revoke the ban on wearing Hijab in classrooms, expressing apprehensions about the "secular nature" of educational environments. Siddaramaiah, on Friday, declared that he had instructed the withdrawal of the ban on wearing Hijab to educational institutions but later U-turned from the announcement after facing backlash.

Taking to X, Karnataka BJP chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa said, "CM Siddaramaiah's decision to withdraw the hijab ban in educational institutions raises concerns about the secular nature of our educational spaces. By allowing religious attire in educational institutions @siddaramaiah govt is promoting dividing young minds along religious lines, potentially hindering the inclusive learning environment."

"It's crucial to prioritize education over divisive practices and foster an environment where students can focus on academics without the influence of religious practices," he said.

 

On hijab ban to be removed in the state, Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge said, "Whatever the Karnataka government is doing is as per the law and framework of the Constitution....BJP has no work to do, they should set their house in order first."

On Friday, Siddaramaiah declared restrictions on wearing hijab in educational institutions in the state will be lifted from December 23. However, he said that they are discussing on withdrawing the decision. On lifting the ban on hijab in Karnataka, CM Siddaramaiah on Saturday said, "I have said this in response to a question. We have not done it yet. We are thinking of withdrawing the decision (of hijab ban). We will discuss it. "