Slippers, crop tops, ripped jeans, or short dresses are commonly banned in Mumbai colleges. But Vivek Vidyalaya Junior College in Goregaon has surprised students by banning burqas in classrooms, even though the attire had been allowed for years.
A code of conduct sent to students stated that any appropriate Indian or Western outfit is allowed, but “clothing that reveals religion or shows cultural disparity is prohibited.” Burqas, niqabs, emblems, or religious signs must be removed before class, though hijabs or headscarves are permitted.
Several girls said they now enter campus wearing a burqa, change in the washroom before class, and switch back afterward. “It’s about habit more than anything,” an FYJC student said. “I have grown up wearing a burqa. Now, it feels odd to sit in class without one.”
The rule applies only to the junior college; the senior college has no such restriction. Students who questioned the decision were told to cancel admission. On December 1, a few students, along with Jahanara Shaikh, an advocate from All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), approached the Teen Dongri police station in Goregaon West, where the principal was also called.
“We haven’t filed a complaint or taken any legal step as of now. Today, we requested the principal to repeal the decision, but she refused and said she would talk to the college management. We are scheduled to speak with the authorities again in two days,” she added. mid-day tried to reach Principal Sheeja Menon, who said, “Our lawyers will look into it,” and shared no further comment.
