Protest erupts over enforcing new uniform sans headscarves in Lakshadweep schools

Kozhikode: The introduction of new uniforms in the schools of Lakshadweep has met with intense protests from the islanders. According to a circular issued by the director of the education department, the new dress code must be mandatorily implemented in all schools. 

As of now, girl students had worn blue and white coloured churidar along with shawls as uniform. The new circular directs students to wear skirts and half sleeve shirts (check design fabric), omitting shawls and headscarves, stating the aim of developing a sense of uniformity and brotherhood among students.    

According to the islanders, the change in uniforms has to be seen as an encroachment on Lakshadweep's age-old schooling tradition and freedom, and does not go in line with its culture. Further, for a place with nearly 90 per cent of Muslim students who wear headscarves and shawls, the new dress code poses challenges.   

“The decision (on uniforms) was taken unilaterally without holding any talks with the school management committee (SMC). If any student is expelled because of the move, then it will be against the democratic system and freedom of the islanders,” said MP PP Mohammed Faizal. 

Meanwhile, as per the new circular, schools have been directed not to permit any other uniforms except for those provided by the education directorate. School authorities have to send pictures of classrooms and students to check whether the instructions are being followed properly as well. 

It is also learnt that action is likely against class teachers and school principals if the students fail to adhere to the new dress code.