A year after Karnataka hit the headlines of major global media outlets following a controversy that erupted after a dispute pertaining to some Muslim students who wanted to wear hijab in classes were prevented by their classmates, it has again gained media attention. But this time, for some good reasons.
Among the Muslim girls who protested against the college uniform, 18-year-old Tabassum Shaik again hit the headlines and proved "Success is the best revenge". Notably, Karnataka’s 2nd PUC results were declared on Saturday, April 21. Shaik, who faced thousands of her classmates agitating against her Muslim attire, topped the arts stream in the Second Pre-University (PU) exams.
Shaik scored 593 points out of 600
Among the highest scorers, the 18-year-old who still wears a black scarf proudly, received 593 points out of 600 and placed first in the Arts Stream. Giving a tight slap to all the protestors, she scored a perfect 100 in Hindi, Psychology and Sociology.
Meanwhile, speaking to Indian Express after her achievement, Shaik said that she preferred to choose “education over hijab.” “I decided to give up the hijab in college and pursue my education. We will need to make some sacrifices for education,” Shaikh was quoted as saying to The Indian Express.
Follow the law of the land: Proud father
Her proud father, Abdul Khaum Shaik, who played a significant role during her tough days, said he always suggested his daughter prioritise her education over other kinds of stuff.
He told his daughter it is important to “follow the law of the land. Education is more important for the children”.
Notably, all the Muslim girls including Shaik stubborn about wearing hijab, had filed a petition in the court, seeking permission to attend classes wearing hijab.
Tharoor praises efforts
When the controversy broke out, the matter was confined to some regions of the state but soon it evolved into a significant dissension that even the High Court had to intervene. According to the agitating students, wearing a black scarf was their ‘fundamental right’ bestowed under Articles 14 and 25 of the Indian Constitution. Besides, they also argued wearing a hijab is an ‘integral practice of Islam’. However, the Karnataka high court upheld a government order and asserted to continue banning religious attire in educational institutions.
Subsequently, Shaik said she accepted the court's order and resumed her studies without the scarf. Meanwhile, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praised the efforts of the student and said, "Success is the best revenge". #ShabashTabassum!
Also Read: Hijab ban: Muslim Personal Law Board appeals to Karnataka government to withdraw orde
