Karnataka Government Revokes 2022 Hijab Ban in Schools and Colleges
Why it matters
The 2022 order sparked extensive legal challenges regarding the limits of institutional authority versus individual constitutional rights, reaching as far as the Supreme Court after the Karnataka High Court initially upheld the prohibition. By withdrawing the policy in 2026, the state government aims to revert to previous norms, citing concerns over minority student dropout rates and inclusive education.
Educational institutions must now accommodate religious symbols that adhere to the prescribed uniform code. While this restores a degree of religious expression under Article 25 and Article 14, the state has clearly demarcated its boundaries by maintaining the ban on saffron shawls to prevent the politicization of campus environments.
- 2022: Initial ban on religious attire.
- 2026: Policy withdrawal.
- Permitted: Hijab, Turban, Rudraksha.
- Restricted: Saffron Shawls.
Glossary
Article 25: The constitutional provision guaranteeing freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion.
NaukriSync Exam Angle
Polity & Governance. Key fact to memorise: In May 2026, the Karnataka government withdrew the 2022 hijab ban, permitting religious symbols like hijab and turbans in schools while continuing the ban on saffron shawls. Most likely question format: Statement-based MCQ for UPSC or SSC asking about the current status of religious attire in Karnataka schools or the constitutional articles (Art 25, 14, 21) involved in the dispute.