A case has been registered against a school principal and a teacher in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly forcing Hindu children to wear hijab and skull cap, police said on Monday. The accused have been identified as Anzar Ahmed, the principal, and Gul Aizaz, a teacher at a government school in the state.
Case Registered Under Multiple Sections
The police have filed a case under sections related to attempt to incite hatred in the name of religion and criminal conspiracy. The move comes after complaints from parents who alleged that their children were coerced into adopting religious attire associated with Islam.
Allegations of Religious Conversion
Parents claimed that the school staff forced Hindu students to wear hijab and skull cap, which they viewed as an attempt at religious conversion. The incident has sparked outrage among local communities, with demands for strict action against the accused.
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the accused allegedly intimidated students and threatened them with punishment if they refused to comply. The police are investigating the matter and have assured a thorough probe.
Broader Context of Religious Tensions
The case adds to ongoing debates about religious freedom and coercion in educational institutions. Uttar Pradesh has witnessed several similar incidents in the past, leading to heightened sensitivity around religious symbols in schools.
Authorities have urged calm and emphasized that the law will take its course. Meanwhile, the school administration has denied the allegations, calling them baseless.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are awaited.
