'Burqa Banned': Notices Outside Jewellery Shops: Political Controversy in Bihar
Background of the Incident
In Bihar, jewellery shop owners have put up notices outside their shops, stating that customers wearing burqa, niqab, mask, or helmet are not allowed to enter. This is an echo of a similar decision recently taken in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. Notices banning entry with face covered have been displayed in jewellery shops across the state, leading to political controversy.
Ashok Kumar Verma, Bihar president of the All India Jewellers and Goldsmith Federation, said the decision was taken after a meeting with district presidents from across the state. Customers will be asked to remove masks, helmets, burqas, or hijabs before entering jewellery shops. This rule is being implemented statewide in Bihar for the first time.
Security Reasons
This decision has been taken purely from a security perspective, as clarified by Verma. In several past incidents, people concealing their faces made identification difficult even for police. Currently, with gold prices at around 1.40 lakh rupees per 10 grams and silver at 2.5 lakh per kg, security risks have increased.
Information has been provided over the phone to the Patna Central SP, and letters have been sent to the DGP, Chief Secretary, and Home Department. Since most jewellery customers are women, requests will be made politely, keeping their dignity in mind, especially as many shops have female sales staff. If a customer refuses to comply, the shop will not sell jewellery.
Political Reactions
Adil Hasan, national spokesperson of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) led by Asaduddin Owaisi, welcomed the decision but stressed that the dignity of Muslim women must also be protected. Security is important, but shops should ensure that female sales staff interact with women customers.
Janata Dal (United) (JDU) spokesperson Anjum Ara urged traders to take decisions carefully. Such notices could make women who wear burqas or hijabs uncomfortable and may negatively impact business. This is a matter linked to religion, and every faith allows freedom in clothing and personal choices.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) state spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad condemned the decision, saying it is unconstitutional and against India's constitutional tradition. Targeting hijab and niqab in the name of security hurts religious sentiments and is an attempt to snatch the fundamental right to religious freedom guaranteed in the constitution. He alleged that BJP and RSS members are behind this.
Sources and References
Disclosure
This article is compiled based on reports published in various credible media outlets.
