New Delhi: There has also been a reaction from the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in the national capital on the Karnataka hijab controversy that has become a topic of debate across the country. More than 200 JNU students have expressed their support for the Muslim students of Karnataka who are protesting against the demand to wear hijab in the school. JNU students, who supported, say that barring girl students from wearing the hijab reflects the Islamophobic and patriarchal tendencies of the state and its institutions.
JNU students have issued a statement saying that forcing Muslim girl students not to wear the hijab is a violation of Article 25 of the Indian Constitution. This article provides for the right to freedom of religion. At the same time, the refusal to stop girl students in the classroom is a violation of Article 21(a) and Article 15. Both of these guarantee the right to education and prevent bias based on religion, caste, sex or place of birth.
A statement issued by JNU students said that Muslims demanding to wear hijab in educational institutions in Karnataka support girl students. We want to protect their right to education. The decision to wear or not to wear the hijab on the strength of power cannot be implemented. It depends on their will. The statement also said that an attempt is being made to declare the protesting girl students guilty under a conspiracy.
