Fresh debate erupts in UP after Governor Anandiben Patel ordered dress code in universities, colleges
Lucknow: A fresh debate has erupted in Uttar Pradesh state of India after Governor Anandiben Patel ordered the implementation of a dress code in universities and colleges across the state.
The order, issued on May 21, mandates that students attend campuses in prescribed uniforms, similar to school systems.
Officials said the move aims to minimise visible economic disparities among students and promote discipline on campuses. A uniform dress code, they added, would also help institutions identify outsiders more easily.
However, the decision has sparked discussion among Muslim scholars, educationists and social groups, amid concerns that it could trigger controversy around the hijab and Muslim identity.
Reacting to the order, Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, said there was “nothing new” in the directive, noting that dress codes already exist in many schools, colleges and madrasas.
“We support this decision,” he said, adding that such regulations are already a common feature in educational institutions.
At the same time, he cautioned that “communal forces” might attempt to give the issue a Hindu-Muslim colour by bringing the hijab into the debate.
“Some sectarian elements want to turn this into a Hindu-Muslim issue by introducing terms like hijab into the discussion,” he said.
Offering what he described as a practical approach, Razvi suggested that Muslim girl students could wear the hijab while travelling to institutions and remove it inside classrooms if required by institutional rules.
“Muslim girls can wear the hijab while going to school or college and remove it after entering the campus. They can wear it again while returning home. This can help avoid confrontation,” he said.
His remarks have drawn mixed reactions within the community, with some viewing the suggestion as pragmatic, while others argue that religious freedom should extend within campuses as well.
Another scholar, Maulana Mohammad Nazim Ashrafi, questioned the state government’s priorities, arguing that improving educational infrastructure should come before enforcing dress codes.
“The government should first ensure access to books and proper educational facilities before introducing dress regulations,” he said.
He also emphasised the need for consultation, saying that authorities should engage with religious scholars, teachers and students before implementing such policies.
“If discipline is the objective, that is welcome. But ulema, educators and students should be consulted so that no one’s religious sentiments are hurt,” he said.
Ashrafi noted that several universities already maintain a balance by allowing flexibility in clothing while ensuring uniformity in colour or pattern.
“In many institutions, girls are allowed to wear hijab, scarf or veil. Students may choose their attire, but a common colour or pattern is maintained,” he said.
