School in Kochi declares holiday for two days following row over hijab

A private school here has declared a two-day holiday following a dispute involving a student who allegedly insisted on attending classes wearing a hijab. The school authorities objected to it, saying that it went against the dress code of the institution, which led to a tense situation on Friday, according to sources at the school.

The alleged incident took place at St. Rita’s Public School at Palluruthy. The school was given a two-day holiday from Monday. The decision was taken after a parent-teacher association (PTA) meeting to avoid a possible tense situation.

Meanwhile, Subin Paul, Deputy Director of Education, Ernakulam, said that he was awaiting a report from the District Education Officer on the incident. “As per law, the student has the right to attend classes, and wearing a hijab cannot be a reason for denying her the right to study. We are trying to resolve the issue amicably,” said Mr. Paul.

According to the school authorities, a few individuals had created a ruckus at the school on Friday, demanding that the student be allowed to attend classes wearing a hijab. Subsequently, the school management approached the High Court on Monday seeking police protection for the institution.

PTA president Joshi Kaithavalappil said that the school was given police protection on Monday. He maintained that the student could still attend classes provided she complied with the dress code of the institution. “We do not discriminate between students. She can continue to attend classes, but she will have to comply with the dress code,” said Mr. Kaithavalappil.

Speaking to reporters later, the student’s parent claimed that the school had not objected to the use of hijab in the past. “She had gone to the school earlier wearing a shawl over head. But later on, the school authorities began asking her to remove the head covering,” the parent alleged.

A letter issued by Principal Sr. Heleena Alby on October 12 said that the holiday was declared as several students had requested leave and teachers and non-teaching staff had failed to turn up for work fearing a possible tense situation. The letter said that the student had arrived at the school wearing an attire that was not permitted by the school.