The Karnataka government has granted permission for students to wear the hijab, which is a headscarf traditionally worn by some Muslim women, during competitive exams. This decision has once again sparked a renewed debate on the topic, which had caused controversy last year.
Certain pro-Hindu groups have expressed their intention to stage protests against this announcement made by Karnataka Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar.
MC Sudhakar, in a conversation with India Today, has supported the decision to allow students to wear the hijab, emphasizing that people are free to choose their attire. He stated, "This is a secular country. People are free to dress however they want."
Furthermore, he has assured that students wearing the hijab will be required to arrive at the exam centre at least one hour prior to the start of the exam. There will be thorough checks to prevent any form of malpractice. He added, "This practice is also permitted in the NEET entrance exam."
Addressing the groups threatening to protest against this order, Sudhakar expressed his confusion, stating, "I don't understand the logic of these people. This is a selective protest. One cannot infringe on someone else's rights. This is a secular country."
The debate surrounding students wearing the hijab initially erupted in January 2022 when Muslim schoolgirls at Udupi Women's Pre-University College attended classes while wearing the headscarf.
