The Karnataka High Court's ruling that hijab is not an essential religious practice of Islam is shocking and the verdict has disappointed the students who were in anticipation of a favourable judgement, said Ibrahim Saheb Kota, president, Udupi District Muslim Federation.
"This verdict is not final. We will utilise the provision under the law to appeal before the Supreme Court," said Kota, adding that the HC judgement was not in the spirit of the constitutional values, nor did it uphold the fundamental rights.
"It is also alarming to note that the court has taken upon itself to define what the essential and non-essential religious practices are. There is no difference of opinion among the community members over hijab being an integral part of Islam," stated the Federation members, who also alleged the high court has set a new precedence by interpreting the religious texts in a way that is contrary to the belief and understanding of the community,.
The federation also quoted the Quran (Sura 33:59) which says, "Prophet! Tell Thy wives and daughters, And the believing women, That they should cast their outer garments over their persons; That is most convenient, that they should be known and not molested. And God is Oft – Forgiving, Most Merciful.”
"The verdict has not only denied the Muslim girls their religious rights but also deprived them of their right to education. The verdict has also sent out a message that uniforms are more important than educating our future generation," added Kota.
