The Karnataka government has officially revoked the 2022 order that banned hijab in classrooms, a policy introduced during the previous Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) administration. The decision marks a significant shift in the state's education policy, restoring the right of Muslim female students to wear the hijab in educational institutions. The move has been welcomed by various student and civil rights groups, who had long protested the ban as discriminatory.
Background of the Hijab Ban
The original order, issued in February 2022, prohibited students from wearing any religious attire in classrooms, including the hijab. It sparked widespread protests across Karnataka and led to a legal battle that reached the Karnataka High Court and later the Supreme Court. The High Court upheld the ban in March 2022, stating that the hijab was not an essential religious practice. However, the Supreme Court later agreed to hear appeals against the verdict, and the matter remained sub judice.
Government's Rationale for Revocation
The current state government, led by the Congress party, cited the need to uphold secularism and individual freedoms. Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa stated that the decision was taken after consultations with legal experts and community leaders. He emphasized that the government believes in providing an inclusive environment where students can pursue education without fear of discrimination. The revocation is seen as a move to restore harmony in educational institutions.
NEET-UG Paper Leak Case: 5 Arrested
In a major breakthrough, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested five individuals in connection with the NEET-UG paper leak case. The arrests were made after a thorough investigation into the alleged leak of the medical entrance examination question paper. The accused include two former employees of a private coaching institute and three others who were involved in the distribution of the leaked paper.
Details of the Investigation
The CBI has been probing the case since complaints were filed by students and parents who suspected irregularities in the examination process. The agency recovered digital evidence linking the accused to the leak. Officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are expected. The NEET-UG exam is a crucial entrance test for medical colleges across India, and any compromise in its integrity raises serious concerns about the fairness of the admission process.
Impact on Students
The paper leak has caused anxiety among thousands of students who appeared for the exam. Many have demanded a re-examination to ensure a level playing field. The CBI's action has been praised by student organizations, but they continue to call for a transparent investigation and strict punishment for those involved. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts NEET-UG, has assured that it will take all necessary steps to maintain the sanctity of the examination.
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