Kerala medical students advocate for Hijab accommodation during surgery
Students propose alternatives to balance religious beliefs and surgical duties while adhering to hijab norms
Thiruvananthapuram, June 28: Seven medical students studying MBBS at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, have written a letter to the principal, highlighting the need for a solution to accommodate their religious hijab requirements while performing surgical duties. The students emphasized that wearing hijab is mandatory for Muslim women under all circumstances according to their religious beliefs.
The letter outlines possible alternatives based on international standards and suggestions from surgical clothing manufacturers. The students propose the use of long-sleeve scrub jackets and surgical hoods, which would allow them to maintain sterile precautions while also observing hijab.
Dr Lynette Morris, the principal, acknowledged the students' request and mentioned that a committee has been formed to discuss the matter. However, she emphasized that the current operation theatre maintains international standards and prioritizes patient safety.
Dr Morris stated that the decision cannot be made unilaterally and that the committee will work towards finding a solution within 10 days.
This request comes in the wake of a similar issue in Karnataka last year when the state government, then led by the BJP, banned hijab on campuses. The matter sparked a nationwide debate, with contrasting opinions on whether religious customs should be allowed in educational institutions or seen as a violation of minority rights.
The case reached the Karnataka High Court, which upheld the government's ban by stating that hijab is not an essential practice in Islam. The verdict was later challenged in the Supreme Court, where a two-judge bench delivered a split verdict. The Supreme Court has announced plans to form a three-judge bench to further examine the matter.