No one should engage in 'narrow politics' : Mayawati on hijab row

BSP leader Mayawati warned against using the hijab row for "narrow politics" on Wednesday (August 26, 2026). She urged that issues of religious practices should be resolved locally, emphasizing the Constitution's guarantee of equal rights for all religions and communities. The former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister stressed the importance of respecting religious beliefs and customs, urging mutual understanding and wisdom between school authorities and the government in school-related matters.

Mayawati specifically addressed the Allahabad High Court's decision to dismiss a hijab-wearing student's petition, noting that such legal disputes should be handled locally to prevent them from being used for political gain. The BSP, an Ambedkarite party, aims to protect all sections of society and their religious freedoms. AIMPLB member Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahali threatened to challenge the Allahabad High Court's order in court.

Mayawati also called for an immediate and peaceful resolution to the tension in Budaun district over an Ambedkar statue, where recent clashes left multiple people injured and vehicles damaged.