Judgment Reserved on Hijab Ban Case in India

Karnataka's Supreme Court has reserved its decision on the ban on hijab in educational institutions.

According to Indian media, after hearing for 10 days, the court reserved the decision regarding the hijab ban. More than 20 lawyers, including senior advocates, presented arguments on behalf of the petitioners.

Court reports indicate that the petitioner's lawyers were given time to oppose the government's claim.

Muslim petitioners' attorney told the court that the state can withdraw its circular at any time. According to Huzaifa Ahmadi, there was no explanation provided as to why wearing the hijab would hinder education.

Additionally, the attorneys representing the Muslim petitioners and other petitioners submitted to the court a circular issued by the Karnataka Education Department in 2021 which clearly stated that uniforms are not mandatory in government colleges. Those who do so under duress may be punished.

During the last hearing, the petitioner's lawyer said that hijab is important to Muslim women in the same way that the turban is important to Sikhs.

Since Justice Hemant Gupta, who is on the judicial bench involved in the case, will retire on October 16, the case decision is likely to come before he retires.

What do you think the verdict will be?