Students Protest Burqa Restrictions at Medical College in Jammu and Kashmir
Students Protest Burqa Restrictions at Medical College in Jammu and Kashmir
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Students and nursing interns at Government Medical College and Hospital in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, staged a protest on September 30 after alleging that the head of the gynecology department had prevented trainees wearing burqas or abayas from entering the labour room during clinical training.
According to a written complaint submitted by the students, similar incidents had allegedly occurred on several occasions. The students also alleged that some trainees wearing burqas were prevented from entering the gynecology department head’s office. The students described the incidents as discriminatory, while the doctor concerned reportedly denied that her objection was directed at the hijab or burqa.
The hospital administration said the issue concerned clinical dress and hygiene protocols in sensitive areas such as labour rooms and operating theatres. Dr. Irfan Tassaduq, the hospital’s in-charge medical superintendent, described the dispute as a possible “miscommunication” and said medical staff are required to follow infection-control procedures in such areas.
The GMC Doda administration has constituted an inquiry committee to examine the students’ allegations and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Reports differ on the committee’s size, with Muslim Network TV and United News of India describing it as an eight-member panel, while The Indian Express reported a seven-member panel.
The controversy also drew political attention. On October 1, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq said restrictions on religious attire should be considered in light of the constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion. He called for a thorough investigation while also stressing the need for medical institutions to maintain professional standards.
The development comes amid widespread restrictions on religious identity and expression of Muslims and systematic discrimination against their rights pushed by the Hindutva agenda under Modi’s nationalist government.
