DU students' outfit protests against hijab restrictions in Karnataka college

NEW DELHI: A students' outfit at Delhi University (DU) on Tuesday protested against hijab restrictions in a government pre-university college in Udupi in Karnataka.

The Muslim Students' Federation protested outside the Arts Faculty in DU North Campus. The gathering comprised 50 students, including women, who were wearing hijabs. Carrying banners like ''We, the people of Muhammad, will fight hate'' and "In solidarity with the students of Karnataka'', they raised their voice against the row which has erupted in the southern state.

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As protest for and against the ‘hijab’ intensified in Karnataka, the chief minister Basavaraj S Bommai ordered closure of schools, colleges in the state for the next three days. He also appealed to students and people to maintain peace.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said, "I appeal to all the students, teachers and management of schools and colleges as well as people of Karnataka to maintain peace and harmony. I have ordered closure of all high schools and colleges for next three days. All concerned are requested to cooperate."

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Tension had prevailed at some educational institutions in Udupi, Shivamogga, Bagalkote and other parts of the state as they were rocked by protests for and against hijab on Tuesday, forcing the police and administration to intervene.

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday heard petitions filed by five girls studying in a Government Pre-university College in Udupi, questioning hijab restriction in college and the matter has been posted for Wednesday. The protest over dress code started in one school and has spread to other districts.