Muslim scholars back campus discipline but caution against communalising hijab; others say focus should remain on education and student welfare
LUCKNOW — A fresh debate has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Governor Anandiben Patel ordered the implementation of a dress code in universities and colleges across the state.
The order, issued on May 21, mandates that students attend campuses in prescribed uniforms, similar to school systems.
Officials said the move aims to minimise visible economic disparities among students and promote discipline on campuses. A uniform dress code, they added, would also help institutions identify outsiders more easily.
However, the decision has sparked discussion among Muslim scholars, educationists and social groups, amid concerns that it could trigger controversy around the hijab and Muslim identity.
Reacting to the order, Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, said there was “nothing new” in the directive, noting that dress codes already exist in many schools, colleges and madrasas.
“We support this decision,” he said, adding that such regulations are already a common feature in educational institutions.
At the same time, he cautioned that “communal forces” might attempt to give the issue a Hindu-Muslim colour by bringing the hijab into the debate.
“Some sectarian elements want to turn this into a Hindu-Muslim issue by introducing terms like hijab into the discussion,” he said.
Offering what he described as a practical approach, Razvi suggested that Muslim girl students could wear the hijab while travelling to institutions and remove it inside classrooms if required by institutional rules.
“Muslim girls can wear the hijab while going to school or college and remove it after entering the campus. They can wear it again while returning home. This can help avoid confrontation,” he said.
His remarks have drawn mixed reactions within the community, with some viewing the suggestion as pragmatic, while others argue that religious freedom should extend within campuses as well.
Another scholar, Maulana Mohammad Nazim Ashrafi, questioned the state government’s priorities, arguing that improving educational infrastructure should come before enforcing dress codes.
“The government should first ensure access to books and proper educational facilities before introducing dress regulations,” he said.
He also emphasised the need for consultation, saying that authorities should engage with religious scholars, teachers and students before implementing such policies.
“If discipline is the objective, that is welcome. But ulema, educators and students should be consulted so that no one’s religious sentiments are hurt,” he said.
Ashrafi noted that several universities already maintain a balance by allowing flexibility in clothing while ensuring uniformity in colour or pattern.
“In many institutions, girls are allowed to wear hijab, scarf or veil. Students may choose their attire, but a common colour or pattern is maintained,” he said.
The issue once again highlights the ongoing national debate over uniforms, religious identity and educational freedom, particularly concerning Muslim women.
In recent years, hijab-related controversies in different parts of India have led to protests, litigation and sharp political exchanges.
Many Muslim parents and students fear that uniform policies could, at times, translate into indirect restrictions on religious expression.
A college student in Lucknow said, “Most students want education and peace. Problems arise when politicians and television debates turn simple issues into religious controversies.”
Women’s rights activists have also urged a balanced approach.
Lucknow-based academic Dr Farah Siddiqui said, “Discipline in educational institutions is important, but constitutional rights and cultural diversity must be respected. Muslim girls should not feel targeted because of their clothing.”
Education experts said the success of any dress code policy would depend on fair and sensitive implementation.
Professor Arvind Mishra, an education analyst, noted, “Uniforms can reduce visible economic differences among students, but authorities must avoid creating unnecessary tensions around religion and identity.”
Political observers believe the issue could become more contentious if institutions impose rules without adequate consultation with students and communities.
For many Muslim families, however, the primary concern remains access to quality education rather than dress regulations.
Shabana Parveen, whose daughter studies at a university in Kanpur, said, “Students need scholarships, books, safe campuses and better teaching. These are the real issues affecting education.”
