The Kerala High Court has closed the hijab-uniform petition at St. Rita’s School after the Class 8 student chose to withdraw voluntarily. The matter ended amicably, highlighting peace, understanding, and constitutional fraternity.
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KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Friday closed the petition filed by St. Rita’s Public School, Palluruthy, marking an amicable end to the hijab controversy involving a Class 8 student. The court recorded that the issue had been resolved peacefully and that “better sense has prevailed.”
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Case Background
The dispute began when a 13-year-old girl studying at St. Rita’s Public School was allegedly not permitted to wear a hijab in class, citing the school’s uniform policy. The incident sparked local outrage and drew political and religious attention after the church-run CBSE institution, managed by the Latin Catholic Church, briefly closed on October 13 and 14 to prevent tensions.
Court’s Observation
Justice V. G. Arun, while closing the matter, appreciated that the issue had been settled without confrontation.
“This Court is happy to note that better sense has prevailed and that ultimately, fraternity, one of the foundational principles on which the edifice of our Constitution is built, remains strong,”
the order stated.
The bench also observed that it did not appear as though “the Sisters have pushed her out of the school.” Instead, the student’s parents had voluntarily decided to withdraw her and admit her elsewhere.
Student’s Decision
During the hearing, the 13-year-old student was present in court. Her counsel submitted that the girl had independently chosen to leave the school, stating:
“Though it is heartfelt and painful, she does not wish to continue at the school. The DDE’s order allowing her to attend classes wearing a headscarf was intended to protect her. There is no need to escalate the matter further, as it is a sensitive issue.”
The school’s counsel reiterated that the management upheld a secular and inclusive vision and wished to end the issue peacefully. The State Attorney informed the court that, in light of the student’s decision, the government did not intend to pursue the matter further.
Case Title:
St. Rita’s Public School v. Director General of Police Kerala & Ors.
WP(C) NO. 37785 OF 2025 (W)
