Mangaluru : -In a surprising turn of events, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s recent comments regarding the potential revocation of the hijab ban in government schools and colleges have generated confusion. Contrary to initial reports, the CM clarified on Saturday that no official order has been issued, emphasizing that a conclusive decision will only be reached following thorough discussions at the government level.
During a media address in Mysuru, Siddaramaiah clarified, “We have not issued any order on this matter. In response to a query about the hijab, I mentioned that we are contemplating lifting the ban. The final decision will be made after discussions at the government level.”
Complicating matters further, School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa underscored the sensitivity of the issue, affirming that any decision would carefully consider the legal framework and involve consultations with the chief minister. He stressed the importance of handling the matter with care and avoiding unnecessary politicization.
The hijab ban is currently under judicial review, marked by a split verdict from the Supreme Court in October 2022. Justice Hemant Gupta supported the ban, citing the promotion of uniformity and a secular environment, while Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia viewed the right to wear the hijab as a matter of personal choice linked to a girl’s dignity and privacy.
The case has been referred to a yet-to-be-constituted three-judge bench. B V Acharya, former advocate general of Karnataka, suggested that if the government revokes the order, petitioners may argue the appeal in the Supreme Court becomes irrelevant. However, if the High Court order is upheld, the influence of college development committees may strengthen.
In Mandya, Muskan Khan, who discontinued her education due to the hijab ban, expressed hope for a resolution. Meanwhile, former education minister B C Nagesh accused Siddaramaiah of needlessly creating societal divisions for political gains, emphasizing that the Karnataka High Court order remains valid until the three-judge bench hears the matter.
As uncertainty persists, the hijab issue continues to be a complex and contentious topic, entwining legal, social, and political dimensions.
