Several students of Vishwa Bharti Higher Secondary School in Rainawari area of Srinagar staged a protest on Thursday, accusing the school authorities of denying them entry while wearing ‘Abaya’.
According to one of the protesting students who spoke to news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), they were allegedly prevented from entering the school premises wearing ‘Abaya’ based on an order issued by the school principal. The student further claimed that the principal had initially instructed them not to wear ‘Abaya’ inside the school but had now changed her stance.
The students alleged that despite being an all-girls institution, the school authorities have introduced co-education. They demanded that the authorities establish a specific dress code for them.
The principal of Vishwa Bharti Higher Secondary School refuted the allegations, stating that the school has its own dress code, and some girls already wear ‘Abaya’ without any hindrance. She clarified that she had recently instructed the teachers to advise students not to wear ‘Abaya’ within the school premises but allowed them to wear it until they reached the school, in order to maintain decorum.
The principal emphasized that there was no external authority involved in the matter. She stated that she believed in implementing a standard dress code, similar to what is followed in other institutions. She also mentioned the intention to announce a specific color and pattern of ‘Abaya’ for all the students who wish to wear it, adding that the institution would not permit colorful ‘Abayas’.
The protest by the students has drawn attention to the issue, highlighting their concerns regarding the school’s dress code policies and the alleged recent introduction of co-education in a previously all-girls school.
The school administration is expected to review the matter and establish a formal dress code, including specifications for ‘Abaya’ attire, in the near future.
The Chenab Times News Desk