Karnataka Allows Hijab, Bans Saffron Shawls

India — Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified the state government's new order on religious symbols in educational institutions. The order allows existing religious practices such as hijab, turbans, rudraksha beads, and sacred threads (Janeu) to be worn in schools up to Class 12. However, Siddaramaiah explicitly stated that saffron shawls would not be permitted, emphasizing that no new religious practices could be introduced. This decision reverses the India — Bharatiya Janata Party government's 2022 order that had banned hijab in government schools, which had led to widespread controversy. The India — Bharatiya Janata Party and other Hindu right-wing organizations have criticized the India — Indian National Congress government's move, labeling it 'appeasement politics' and threatening to counter it by wearing saffron shawls. The India — Indian National Congress government, through minister Madhu Bangarappa, defended the decision, asserting that education should not be hindered by religious identity and that the constitution allows for all religions.