The issue of hijab politics in Karnataka, previously a source of tension in the student community, has once again surfaced. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's recent announcement to lift the ban on hijab for Class 11 and 12 students has ignited a widespread debate.
This decision has sparked concerns of potential conflict, with the opposition BJP hinting at unrest in the coming days. Academic experts anticipate that numerous Muslim girls, previously restricted from attending schools and colleges, will now have the opportunity to pursue their studies.
Political analysts view Siddaramaiah's announcement as a strategic move to secure the support of Muslim voters and counter the increasing Hindutva influence, particularly in the aftermath of the inauguration of the Sri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. They argue that it also serves as a response to Prime Minister Modi's momentum leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and aims to curb the rise of 'muscular' nationalism.
Former CM B.S. Yediyurappa expressed the BJP's stance, stating that while the party won't organize protests against lifting the hijab ban, the electorate will voice their dissatisfaction in the upcoming Parliamentary elections. BJP representatives, Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and C.T. Ravi, suggested that Hindu students may demand the right to wear saffron shawls and tilak in response.
Critics, including BJP's Karunakar Kasale, argue that Siddaramaiah's decision reflects appeasement politics and community division, diverting attention from pressing issues like drought. Kasale contends that the statement could be seen as contempt of court, given that the hijab issue is still under Supreme Court review. He predicts strong opposition, potentially leading to Siddaramaiah's resignation.
Political analyst Channabasappa Rudrappa sees the hijab statement as a move to consolidate vote banks, especially among the Ahinda votes, while countering the rising wave of Hindutva. With the Dalit candidate proposal for the Prime Minister position by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, hijab becomes a focal point to consolidate Muslim votes against the backdrop of growing nationalism.
On a positive note, V.P. Niranjan Aradhya, a Development Educationist and Social Activist, welcomes Siddaramaiah's decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding students' fundamental rights. He points out that the earlier hijab ban had led to a denial of education for many female students, supporting the notion that decisions affecting education must consider the dignity of the child. Aradhya hopes for the issuance of proper orders in line with international laws and the Indian Constitution to foster an environment where children from all communities can thrive without becoming victims of political maneuvering.
(With Agency Inputs)
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