Mumbai College Denies Entry To Burqa-Wearing Girl Students, Police Resolves Issue After Protests

A college situated in Mumbai's Chembur district restricted students from wearing burqas on campus because of its uniform policy on Wednesday (2 August).

According to a police official, the college security guards asked the students to remove their burqas before entering the premises as the college has its own specified uniform.

The incident caused tensions between the parents and the school administration, resulting in protests outside the college gate, which were recorded and shared online.

Principal Vidya Gauri Lele stated that the college had previously informed the parents about the new dress code policy during a meeting held on 1 May.

At that time, all attendees, including parents, had agreed to the dress code, which included the prohibition of burqas, hijabs, scarves, and stickers. However, the protests arose despite the prior agreement.

The situation was eventually resolved with the intervention of the police officials. Both parties agreed to the revised rules set by the college administration.

As per the new rules, girl students are allowed to come to the college wearing burqas, hijabs, or scarves to ensure their safety and dignity. However, they are required to remove the burqas inside and wear scarves within the classroom.

A similar ban on hijabs in Karnataka last year led to protests across the country. The matter was eventually taken to the Supreme Court, where it is currently pending a decision.