Hijab controversy It is sad and unwanted that division on religious basis is entering the educational Institutions and both parents and students need to take a less passionate view.The strength of the nation should not be dissipated on the this fringe issues. This local issue has engulfed campuses all over and politicians are fuelling the flames of hatred and communalism. The school managements suddenly under pressure have enforced regulations and lock the gates when it was a common practice so far..The constitutions provides freedom to profess , practice, propagate religion with reasonable restrictions on public order morality and health It is the duty of the State to protect these fundamental rights. Hijab wearing does not contravene anyone of them. HIJAB is considered essential and pilots, army , police are permitted all over the world..A Muslim in the Army was asked to shave as it wasnot considered essential to religion .At a medical entrance dress restriction was mandatory to check for hidden devices and upheld.Courts have upheld collective rights over individual rights.Single judge orders are sometimes reversed by larger bench and that is accepted , as non wearing of mask by a single driver was overruled as permissible The question will be raised about turbans wearing of cross, mangal sutr etc..Will a student priest or a nun be disallowed in their religious attire? etc.Students so far were not bothered anout these things like clothes ,surnames ,food etc indicative of identity. India is a diverse country and Unity in diversity shall be tolerated. How often the Parliamentarians themselves are attired to establish their religious identity and there are no issues or protests. These unresolved, non issue should not lead to segregation , division, hatred amongst impressanle minds The pressure from outside is palpable as sudden restrictions have surfaced by locking gates and enforcing restrictions . Politicians must avoid interference and injecting virus of communalism in the surcharged atmosphere of the day The issue should be resolved soon and not allowed to fester to target a particular minority.The parents students politicians and management should take a realistic view to diffuse the explosive situation turning out of control in the sacred precincts of educatonal institutions
Nelson Lopes Chinchinim
