Monday 18 February 2013

Russian Muslims challenge law banning hijabs in school


PYATIGORSK, February – RAPSI. A court in the Stavropol Territory in southern Russia is looking into a lawsuit against the new school uniform requirements which include a ban on wearing head dresses, such as Muslim hijabs, in class, RIA Novosti reported on Monday.
Moscow lawyer Murad Musayev has reportedly filed a lawsuit on behalf of Muslims in Stavropol Territory, seeking to overturn the regional government’s resolution on the introduction of school uniforms.
The rules listed as part of the resolution prohibit school children from wearing bright colored clothes, trousers and skirts with a low waistline or high slits, veils, accessories featuring symbols of informal youth groups, as well as religious clothing.
The source told RIA Novosti that the court is studying the documents but has not yet accepted the case for hearing. The Muslim Board of the Stavropol Territory said they have decided to remain neutral on the issue. They neither support nor condemn the lawsuit.
According to the press service of the local governor, their stance on this issue has not changed. They believe a distinct line must be drawn between secular and religious education. The regional government declined to comment, while the regional education ministry was not available for comment.
There are approximately 20 million Muslims in Russia. Most live in the North Caucasus, as well as in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan.

No comments:

Post a Comment