Uttar Pradesh College Expels Hijab-Wearing Students

In Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, a group of Muslim girls wearing hijabs were denied entry to Janta Inter College by Principal Shivendra Pal Singh, who instructed them to return without their hijabs and in loose garments. The incident, which was recorded and shared on social media, sparked outrage among parents and guardians, who view it as a violation of religious freedoms. Following the backlash, the Bijnor police have launched an investigation, and the District Inspector of Schools is looking into the matter. This incident closely follows a Supreme Court ruling that temporarily stayed a hijab ban at a Mumbai college, raising questions about religious attire in educational institutions. The principal, defending his actions, claimed that the dress code should apply equally to all students and should not be linked to religion. A meeting between college authorities and the guardians is being facilitated to address the issue.