The Kerala government softened its stance on Wednesday amid furious debate over a hijab ‘ban’ at a Church-run school. Controversy had erupted earlier this week after a Class 8 student was not allowed to attend class for wearing the religious headscarf — prompting widespread outrage that forced the school to declare a two-day holiday.

“The student can attend classes wearing a hijab until she and her parents decide otherwise…If there is already a consensus on the issue, let it end there,” said Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty.

Meanwhile the school management has continued to defend its stance — insisting it has the authority to ensure equality among students in terms of uniforms. St Rita’s public school in Palluruthy reopened it doors on Monday after a two-day pause. But sour

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