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

Lucknow, BSP leader Mayawati urged on Wednesday that discussions over the hijab row should be handled locally rather than used for "narrow politics." She highlighted the Constitution's guarantee of equal rights to people from all religions and communities as outlined by Dr B R Ambedkar. Emphasizing the need for mutual understanding, Mayawati suggested resolving the issue through dialogue between school management and the government.

Concerning hijab-wearing in schools, Mayawati urged against attaching undue importance to the matter and turning it into a legal dispute, stating that such disagreements should be addressed carefully at the local level. She reiterated that the BSP, an Ambedkarite party, respects all sections of society and the safety of people's lives, property, and religious beliefs, urging everyone to refrain from commenting on sensitive matters.

The Allahabad High Court recently dismissed a petition by a minor student seeking to wear a hijab with their school uniform, an issue the All India Muslim Personal Law Board may appeal. Mayawati also called for a swift resolution to the current dispute in Budaun district over the installation of an Ambedkar statue, which led to injuries and property damage.