Quite a lot has been expressed about the recent dismissal of an OJT dressed in the traditional hijab from a Hindu denominational school. As with all controversies, there are always two sides and two slants that are adopted. SWAHA, however, advocates a sane, sober and methodical approach to such situations. There is and always will be a middle path. It is clear that the issue has been mishandled by both the Ministry of Education and the relevant Board that oversees running of the school. Many questions can be asked: Was the school consulted beforehand? Was the Board informed of the OJT assignment? Isn’t the Ministry aware of the rules and regulations that govern the running of denominational schools? It would be most disappointing if the OJT assignment was done with the intent to stir dissention and controversy.
Although denominational schools have the right to choose their staff and by the same token, refuse staff, it would be distasteful if this young lady was turned away simply on the basis of her traditional, Muslim wear. SWAHA neither supports nor encourages such outright discrimination. Our national anthem proclaims that every creed and race find an equal place in this blessed country. One cannot endorse and condemn unity simultaneously. Furthermore, on May 30th 2018, we celebrate 173 years of Indian arrival. With the arrival of our ancestors, came both Hindus and Muslims. How can we faithfully celebrate Indian arrival and yet provoke religious intolerance?
SWAHA believes such incidents should be dépassé in our land where such diversity resides. There are more distressing issues that should concern us as a nation. Let us come together and discuss solutions to crime, access to better healthcare and ways in which we can help build the family unit. We must see sameness, not difference for at the end of it all, we are citizens of the same country and we all have equal right to be here.
Paramacharya Pt. Hardeo Persad
Spiritual Head
SWAHA.
674-7384
Sabita
I agree with you Pundit. In terms of the watch word ‘tolerance’ and the anthem as you referenced, people of all religions should have the right to operate in life and wear traditional garb. Sikhs wear their turbans and muslims wear hijabs. Quebec and France have deemed it unacceptable but these are intolerant positions. Based on international human rights standards, she has a right to wear the hijab wherever she may be. Regards.
chandersain
in hinduism whenever we attend mandirs or puja / there is a dress code i am is seventy years old ”’ and i clearly remembered that my mother and the other ladies wore their ohrini , wether muslim or hindu women even when i was about twenty years i never knew about hijab”’ until recently when people started to other parts of the world , that dress code started to change personally i dont see any issue with with wearing a piece of cloth on your head , both hindu or muslim.. sai organization stresses on the shawl for women to dress moderately and cover their chest thank you