Karnataka hijab row: CFI blames ABVP, Sangh for flaring up tensions

Udupi: The Campus Front of India (CFI) has blamed ABVP and Sangh Parivar for flaring up tension in the state.

“The Hijab issue started at a PU College in Udupi. Instead of dowsing locally, the BJP leaders ensured that the issue spread to other parts of the state. On the day when the High Court was hearing on the issue, students came with saffron shawl and Peta throughout the state. ABVP and Sangh Parivar leaders are behind this tension,” CFI state president Athavullah Punjalkatte told reporters.

He was speaking at a press conference at Udupi on Wednesday.

“In the name of opposing Hijab, Bhagwa flag was hoisted at the pole meant for hoisting the national flag. The students were instigated to shout the Jai Shri Ram slogan. A student was waylaid at Mandya and at Madikeri a student was stabbed for not agreeing to wear saffron. All this happened at a time in the state which indicates that Sangh Parivar was behind all these,” he alleged.

He questioned the failure in filing a case against those who hoisted Bhagwa flag and also pointed at the silence of the Chief Minister.

“When ABVP and Sangh Parivar are involved in all such activities, Education Minister Nagesh is accusing CFI. We strongly condemn this. On the Hijab issue, Campus Front will always support students for their constitutional right,” he declared.