Muslim girl students in India’s Manipur have reacted sharply to a private school’s ban on the use of headscarves and dupattas on campus.

‘Brighter Academy in Imphal has disallowed students from covering their heads on campus, reports the Times of India.

‘Opposing the restriction, All Manipur Muslim Girl Students’ Union (AMMGSU) president Rukshar Chowdhury said on Wednesday that India is a secular state and covering of heads is a mandatory religious practice for many Muslim women.’

‘The school authorities adopted the dress code after completing the admission process for the ongoing academic session, Rukshar said, adding that the restriction amounted to mental harassment of Muslim students.

‘Many students have protested verbally. Some of them have even stopped coming to school. Though we submitted a memorandum to the principal, education minister, and deputy commissioner (Imphal West), no steps have been taken,’ Chowdhury said.

‘We are planning to launch a stir until the ban is overturned. We might file a petition against the school authorities with the high court,’ she said.