Should burqa be banned in classrooms and exam halls? - Group Discussion

Should burqa be banned in classrooms and exam halls?

Burqa or Islamic face coverings are donned by Muslim women. The question that has raised a few eyebrows in the recent times is, whether burqa should be banned or should it be the sole decision of the person wearing it?

For

- Burqa is understandably an essential element of women coming from a conservative background but it prevents them to jell well amongst the teachers and students, respectively.

- Learning in classroom requires a healthy relationship between teachers and students and facial expression forms a significant part of communication.

- It is a handicap when it comes to class participation or making presentations.

- It poses an impediment to identification during examinations.

- The teachers fail to understand whether the students with burqa have grasped the essence of their teachings.

- As burqa is only meant for women it sends the wrong message. It makes them appear helpless and oppressed.

Against

- It is a violation of their rights as everyone has the right to chose what they want to wear.

- Banning burqa is a very sensitive issue as it would create a sense of hurt amongst the Muslim communities.

- The choice of the attire should completely rest on the individuals and banning it would further constrict their already limited choices.

- Banning burqa would mean less women coming out of their homes to study and more confined within the four walls of their home.

Conclusion

Burqa is a symbol of religious and cultural declaration. Women should be allowed to make fundamental choices regarding their lives. The authorities should leave it to the women to decide what’s best for them.