Karnataka Head Cover Ban: 'Disappointed' Omar Abdullah Urges Congress To Revoke Order In State

Abdullah criticised the move, expressing worry over the government's intervention in religious practises, particularly during Congress' tenure.

Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. ( Image Source :PTI )

Omar Abdullah, leader of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, has urged Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to take steps to abolish the ban on hijab (headcover) imposed by the previous BJP-led Karnataka government, news agency ANI reported. "I would appeal to senior leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to rethink the order released in Karnataka," he stated. 

Abdullah criticised the move, expressing worry over the government's intervention in religious practises, particularly during Congress' tenure. He asked Congress President Sonia Gandhi, as well as top leaders Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, to reconsider and push towards repealing Karnataka's hijab prohibition. 

Speaking with media, Abdullah stated: "It is a matter of disappointment. Why would the government intervene in wearing what and what not? Specific orders are released that target Muslims. When it used to happen in Karnataka earlier, it didn't surprise us since it was the BJP government in rule at that time. It's disappointing that such orders are being released in the Congress rule."

#WATCH | Baramulla: On Karnataka Examination Authority's ban on any kind of head cover during upcoming recruitment exams, NC Vice President and former J&K CM Omar Abdullah says, "It is a matter of disappointment. Why would the government intervene in wearing what and what not?… pic.twitter.com/B6J6EJ3ThO

— ANI (@ANI) November 14, 2023

After a party ceremony in Baramulla, Abdullah spoke to media, emphasising the need of protecting religious liberties. 

Meanwhile, he commented on the political situation in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that the BJP was scared to face the people, citing the delay of municipal elections and the nearing end of municipal mandates in the area.

Earlier today, the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) prohibited applicants from wearing any type of head cover during the upcoming Karnataka recruitment tests. The KEA's action is intended to reduce recruitment exam malpractices such as the use of Bluetooth devices. Female applicants, on the other hand, are permitted to wear 'Mangalsutra' and toe rings during the examination.