Following the US and Pakistan involvement in the Karnataka hijab row, the foreign ministry said on Saturday that “motivated comments” on India’s internal issues are not welcome. The ministry said in a statement that issues related to the dress code are under judicial review and that they will be addressed through its constitutional framework and mechanisms.
“The dress code of some educational institutions in Karnataka is under judicial review by the Hon’ble High Court of Karnataka,” the ministry said.
“Our constitutional framework and mechanisms, as well as our democratic ethos and polity, are the context in which we consider and address our problems. Those familiar with India will have a proper understanding of these realities. Motivated publications on our internal problems are not welcome. comments,” it added.
On Friday, the U.S. ambassador for international religious freedom said Karnataka should not ban hijabs in schools because it “violates religious freedom.”
“Religious freedom includes the ability to choose one’s religious attire. The Indian state of Karnataka should not determine permissibility of religious clothing. Hijab bans in schools violate religious freedom and stigmatize and marginalize women and girls,” the diplomat tweeted.
Pakistan had earlier summoned India’s Chargé d’Affaires to express its concerns about the hijab, accusing India of “religious intolerance, negative stereotypes and discrimination against Muslims”. Islamabad said in a statement that it was “concerned by the anti-hijab campaign co-sponsored by Karnataka’s RSS-BJP”.
The Karnataka government in its interim order has delayed the reopening of educational institutions on the advice of the High Court.
“Prior to considering all of these petitions, we prohibit all students, regardless of their religion or belief, from wearing the saffron shawl (bhagwa) in class and linking scarves, headscarves, religious flags, etc.,” the court said.
The Karnataka High Court hearing will resume on Monday. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court declined to put the case on the emergency list.
Complete News Source: Hindustan Times
