Bengaluru Bans Gatherings, Protests Near Educational Institutions For 2 Weeks Amid Ongoing Hijab Row

"Gatherings, agitations or protest of any type within the area of 200-meter radius from the gate(s) of schools, PU colleges, degree colleges or other similar educational institutions in Bengaluru city, prohibited for two weeks with immediate effect", the order issued by the police department, the government of Karnataka read.

Bengaluru: Amid tension and violence across Karnataka owing to the ongoing hijab row, the Bengaluru police commissioner on Wednesday banned gatherings and protests in the city for two weeks. “Gatherings, agitations or protest of any type within the area of 200-meter radius from the gate(s) of schools, PU colleges, degree colleges or other similar educational institutions in Bengaluru city, prohibited for two weeks with immediate effect”, the order issued by the police department, the government of Karnataka read. Notably, tension prevailed at some educational institutions in Udupi, Shivamogga, Bagalkote, and other parts of the state, during protests for and against hijab today, forcing the police and authorities to intervene.

Read the full circular

Earlier on Tuesday, the state government had to declare a holiday to high schools and colleges for the next three days starting today. CM Bommai also urged students to maintain peace as protests for and against the ‘hijab’ intensified in different parts of Karnataka. “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,” Bommai tweeted yesterday.

High Court Refers Case to Larger Bench

A single-judge bench of the Karnataka High Court, hearing petitions of several Muslim students in the matter has referred the case to a larger bench. “This is a fit case for inquiry by the Chief Justice. The bench of the Chief Justice has the authority to form an extended bench to hear the case. This matter needs urgent hearing, submit complaints and documents to the bench of Chief Justice,” Justice Krishna S. Dixit said, adding that the decision on interim order regarding uniform and wearing of hijab shall also be taken by the Chief Justice.

“There are questions related to the Constitution, there are aspects related to personal laws. Half a dozen court verdicts have been discussed. I have verified more than 12 orders in this regard. There are arguments and counter-arguments related to the case. Let the Chief Justice decide on handing over the matter to an extended bench,” Justice Dixit asserted.