Mumbai: Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Maharashtra has condemned the demand to bar burqa-clad students from appearing in the state’s 10th and 12th board exams, calling it unjust and against Maharashtra’s traditions.
JIH Maharashtra President, Maulana Ilyas Khan Falahi, termed the demand narrow-minded and provocative. “A minister’s call to ban burqa-wearing students from exams violates their fundamental rights and dignity,” he said.
He cited the Supreme Court’s stay on a similar Maharashtra college directive and its ruling against Karnataka’s hijab ban, affirming that such restrictions violate Articles 19(1)(a) and 21 of the Constitution. “It is disappointing to see such regressive demands when burqa-clad students excel in exams,” he added.
Dismissing claims of malpractice, Maulana Falahi called them baseless. “These accusations insult the hard work of Muslim girls. Instead of supporting students, this demand spreads negativity and division,” he said.
He urged the Mahayuti government to reject divisive rhetoric and uphold Maharashtra’s legacy of harmony. “Maharashtra has always stood for peace and inclusivity. Leaders like Savitribai Phule and Fatima Sheikh championed girls’ education. We must protect their legacy,” he emphasized.
JIH Maharashtra called on CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar to reject the burqa ban demand and ensure every girl’s right to education and dignity. “The government’s role is to unite, not divide. We urge immediate steps to reassure Muslim students of their constitutional rights,” Maulana Falahi stated.
He urged Maharashtra to stand firm against such regressive ideas and uphold its values of inclusion and empowerment.
