'Face litigation if hijab-clad girls not let in exam halls'

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Minority Educational Institutions Management Association has warned of filing a criminal contempt case against the State Government if Muslim students wearing hijabs are denied entry into examination centres. Association president C R Muhammed Imthiyaz lambasted School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa over his remark that the hijab ban would remain in place during the exams.

He pointed out that the Karnataka High Court had already overturned the government’s order prohibiting hijabs in examination centres. "As the matter is currently sub judice, the state government should not make any decisions on it. The High Court ruling clearly states that the hijab ban does not apply to minority educational institutions.

The minister’s statement contradicts the court’s decision," he told reporters. He emphasised that the HC had already directed the Education Department, the Director General of Police, and the Police Commissioner not to harass minority students or prevent them from attending exams. "Examination officials and centre authorities should issue a directive allowing female students from minority institutions to enter exam centres with their hijabs," he added.