Karnataka Minister Accuses BJP of Fueling Hijab Controversy for Political Motives

Karnataka minister MC Sudhakar accused the BJP of creating societal divides over the hijab issue, asserting that it is being used for political motives. Renewed debates and protests have emerged following a principal's enforcement of a hijab ban, leading to a state-level award being put on hold.

Karnataka minister MC Sudhakar has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to create societal divides over the hijab issue, suggesting that the controversy is politically motivated. Speaking to ANI, Sudhakar mentioned that hijabs were worn by classmates during his school days without any issues.

Sudhakar's comments come amid a renewed debate over the hijab issue in Karnataka, originating two years ago when a principal denied entry to students wearing hijabs based on a government order. This incident led to widespread protests across the state. Meanwhile, Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stressed the importance of basing actions on actual facts and evidence.

Today, the Karnataka government put a hold on a state-level best teacher award initially set for the principal of Kundapur Government Pre-Graduation College, who enforced the hijab ban. The move, criticized by some individuals on social media, led the government to reconsider the award. Frontline Hindu organizations have condemned the state's decision as appeasement politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)