Bengaluru, May 15: Former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai has sharply criticized the Siddaramaiah government’s recent decision to allow hijabs in schools. He described the move as irresponsible and politically motivated, warning that it could lead to religious divisions among students.
In a press statement, Bommai referenced global trends, noting that women and girls in countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran are gradually moving away from wearing hijabs in their daily lives. He argued that introducing such a law in Karnataka, which he believes pushes girls backward, is inappropriate.
Bommai accused the state government of unnecessarily creating legal controversies and stated that such actions are unbecoming of a responsible and civilized administration. He emphasized that this decision is not indicative of responsible governance but rather a highly irresponsible one.
He pointed out that the government issued this order without any public demand and while the education system was functioning peacefully. Bommai warned that this move could foster discrimination and unrest among children based on religion.
He cautioned, “The government has issued this order to promote appeasement politics and create divisions among students on religious grounds. If this order is not revoked, the government will be solely responsible for any future concerns and discrimination among students.”
Recalling his tenure, Bommai mentioned that his government had issued a clarification order under the 1980 school uniform rules, which was later upheld by the Karnataka High Court. He noted that the matter even reached the Supreme Court, where a divided verdict was delivered, and the case remains pending.
He stated, “Even though this matter is pending in the Supreme Court, the government is once again creating an atmosphere of division and concern among children.”
Accusing the Congress-led government of mismanaging the education system, Bommai claimed that the state lacks a clear education policy and is facing issues such as teacher shortages and declining academic standards.
He concluded, “The government has many pressing issues to address. Instead, it chose to issue such an order. It should clarify why it suddenly made this decision. There seems to be nothing but appeasement politics behind this move.”
It is noteworthy that the Karnataka government recently rescinded its February 5, 2022, order regarding school and college uniforms, issuing new guidelines that allow students to wear limited traditional and faith-based symbols along with prescribed uniforms. This includes the hijab, sacred thread, turban, and other religious symbols, sparking significant controversy.
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