Hijab Controversy: All Eyes On Karnataka High Court, Verdict Tomorrow

Bengaluru: The most-awaited verdict on the hijab controversy is likely to be delivered by Karnataka High Court on March 15.

Ahead of the verdict, the state government has banned large gatherings for a week in Bengaluru to maintain public peace and order.

The row erupted after educational institutions across Karnataka banned wearing of hijab — a headscarf worn by Muslim girls/women – inside school and college premises. It led to violence with students and families of Muslim students as well as anti-hihab groups protesting across the state.

The state government passed an order banning any religious attire inside educational institutions, and even ordered closure of schools and colleges for a few days.

A bunch of petitions were filed by Muslim girls against the government order, arguing that wearing of hijab is part of their religious and cultural practice.

A full bench of the high court — comprising chief justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, justice Krishna Dixit and justice JM Khazi — heard arguments of all parties for 11 days and reserved judgment on February 26.

All eyes will be on the three-member bench tomorrow.