Mumbai students move Bombay High Court against ban on hijab, cap, stoles etc. in college dress code

Nine students from Mumbai's Chembur Trombay Education Society’s NG Acharya and DK Marathe College have challenged a directive in the Bombay High Court imposing a dress code that prohibits attire like burqas, niqabs, hijabs, etc., which reveal religious affiliation. The notice mandates "formal and decent dress" such as shirts and trousers for boys and non-revealing Indian or Western attire for girls, effective June 2024. The students, represented by advocate Altaf Khan, argue the directive is illegal, arbitrary, and violates their right to privacy and religious freedom under Articles 19 and 21 of the Indian Constitution. The High Court Division Bench of Justices AS Chandurkar and Rajesh Patil is set to hear the case on June 18.