Hijab row: Student to leave school; principal open to her return if rules followed

kochi: the parents of a class viii student barred from wearing a hijab at st rita's public school, a church-run institution here, have decided to transfer her to another school citing stress, while the school said it is willing to continue her education if she adheres to its rules.the girl's father told pti, “my daughter has been under severe stress after the hijab incident. she clearly said she doesn't want to return, so we decided to respect her wishes.” the family is exploring other schools for admission and is in talks with one that has agreed to accept her.the controversy began when the school objected to the student wearing a hijab, citing its dress code. the issue escalated despite support for the girl from kerala general education minister v sivankutty. on october 10, the parents visited the school to question the management's stance, prompting a two-day holiday declaration. the kerala high court later ordered police protection for the school.principal sister heleena alby said the institution is open to the student returning if she follows school rules. “if our student returns adhering to the rules and conditions of the school, we are ready to provide her education and help her complete her studies as promised on the first day,” she said, adding that the matter is sub-judice.the principal thanked the kerala high court, the school's lawyer, minister sivankutty, political leaders, christian organisations, and the kochi diocese for their support. she emphasised that the school provides an “indian way” of education, blending cultural and traditional values and teaching students the importance of humanity, environmental protection, and india's heritage.