A significant controversy has emerged in Jammu and Kashmir after a professor at the Government Medical College (GMC) in Doda reportedly prohibited students from wearing burqas in the labour room. The issue has led to widespread protests by students and interns, who have been voicing their discontent for the past three days. The head of the gynaecology department, Dr Madhu Chib, allegedly cited concerns over potential infections as the reason for her stance on appropriate attire.

Dr Chib purportedly asked students to don aprons instead of traditional garments while attending patients, stating that outside clothing could pose health risks to pregnant women. This directive has been met with considerable backlash, as the protesting students perceive it as an infringement on their religious rights and personal attire choices.

Student Response to the Ban

In response to the controversial directive, students have organised a boycott of their work and staged protests outside the hospital facilities. They have accused Dr Chib of harassment and have described the imposition as an attack on their religious freedom. The students took their grievances a step further by lodging a formal complaint against the professor with the medical superintendent.

The situation has prompted a reaction from the hospital administration, which has initiated an inquiry into the matter. A committee has been established to investigate the claims made by the students, with instructions to submit a report within two days. Despite these efforts, the protests continue, as the students maintain their demands.

Among the student protesters, Iqra highlighted the perceived bias in Dr Chib’s actions, stating, “Why are we being asked to shun the burqa? She (the professor) openly says she dislikes burqas. We demand an apology from the doctor. She said those who wear burqas take part in unlawful activity.” This sentiment has resonated with many of her peers, who feel singled out based on their clothing choices.

Political Reaction and Ongoing Negotiations

The situation has also caught the attention of local political figures. Doda AAP MLA Mehraj Malik has expressed his concern over the incident and has taken the matter up with Health Minister Sakina Itoo. Malik stressed the urgent need for administrative action, urging that the issue be resolved promptly to restore harmony within the college environment.

Moreover, discussions between the local police and the protesting students have taken place, with law enforcement officials attempting to mediate and encourage the demonstrators to cease their agitation. However, these discussions have not led to a de-escalation of tensions, as students remain steadfast in their demands for recognition of their rights.

The inquiry and subsequent actions taken by the administration are crucial in addressing the concerns raised by the students. The outcome may set a significant precedent for how such matters are handled in educational and medical institutions in the region going forward.

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