In a fresh Islamophobic act in India, a Muslim student wearing a hijab was denied entry to class at St. Rita’s School in Palluruthy, Kochi, Kerala, triggering widespread backlash and forcing the authorities to close the institution for two days.
The school announced that it would remain closed on Monday and Tuesday following a Parent-Teacher Association meeting aimed at easing tensions. The dispute began after the student’s parents insisted that their daughter be allowed to attend classes while wearing a hijab.
The student’s father lodged formal complaints with the Chief Minister and the Education Minister, alleging that his daughter was subjected to mental harassment over her choice of attire. School authorities, however, maintained that the student had violated the prescribed uniform policy.
