Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru (RJP)
Bengaluru, Oct 29: State higher education minister Basavaraj Rayareddy has warned trouble makers of strict action if they are found harassing Muslim girls wearing hijab and burqa.
Responding to queries regarding the anti-hijab agitation in some colleges by allegedly Sangh Parivar-backed associations and students, the minister said that hijab and burqa should not be identified with any religion. “It is a culture. Anyone can wear hijab or wear burqa. There is no law barring Hindus from wearing it. Constitution allows people to wear dresses of their choice. College students too have freedom when it comes to wearing dresses. No one can decide dress code for them.” he said
Basavaraj Rayareddy
The minister said that there is provision in law to initiate action against educational institutions which directly or indirectly instigate students against hijab and burqa.
The statement comes after several Muslim girls studying at Sri Kumareshwara Arts and Commerce College in Hangal threatened to discontinue their studies if they were not allowed to wear hijab.