School dress code sparks protest in J&K

SRINAGAR: Students of a Srinagar girls' school protested Thursday after being allegedly asked by the principal not to enter the premises wearing "abayas" (traditional cloak), reviving memories of Karnataka's hijab row last year.
The principal of Vishwa Bharti Higher Secondary School claimed she had only sought to put an end to "colourful abayas" and stressed the need for a proper "dress code". She claimed "no higher authorities were involved" in the move. However, oneof the protesting students accused the principal of changing her statements after having initially asked them to shed the clothing altogether.
Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti accused the Centre-run J&K administration of "imposing its will, ultimately resulting in the interference in our religious obligations". "They have objected to Abayas in schools. This is condemnable," Mehbooba said.