A group of students from Jammu and Kashmir studying in Karnataka under the Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS) has approached the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, highlighting that the college administration asked them to trim or shave their beard.
The students, enrolled in the Government Nursing College, Holenarasipura, Hassan, which is affiliated with the Rajiv Gandhi University in Karnataka, claimed the college is enforcing “discriminatory grooming standards” that infringe on their cultural and religious rights.
In a letter submitted to the association, the students claimed the college threatened to mark them absent from clinical activities unless they shave or trim their beards.
This policy, the students argued, is arbitrary and culturally insensitive. They said this issue could lead to further discrimination, particularly during internal assessments and practical examinations.
They requested that the association advocate on their behalf. “We hope that this matter can be resolved without any further pressure or punitive action from the college administration,” the students wrote, urging the association to convey their concerns to the college authorities.
Acknowledging the instructions given to the students, Chandrashekar, the college principal, said, “We have informed the students that maintaining a neat and professional appearance is essential, especially in a field like nursing where discipline is critical. We only asked them to keep their beard trimmed; we did not impose any requirement to shave completely. We understand that it is part of their custom.”
He added, “Yes, it is true that one of the teachers asked them not to come for clinical duties if they do not maintain a professional appearance. We have just asked them to follow the disciplinary standards expected of nursing students. Yesterday, we held a detailed discussion with all the teachers, including the clinical instructor. While we understand there may be cultural sensitivities, we only asked them for basic grooming to maintain a professional environment. Moreover, the students have a shortage in attendance and are not regular for clinical activities.”
According to college authorities, 14 students from Jammu & Kashmir study in the nursing college. The association has already written a letter in this regard to the Karnataka CM’s office.
Nasir Khuehami, national convenor for the J&K Students Association, who spoke to The Indian Express on their behalf, said they will also write to the Jammu and Kashmir government. “No student should be forced to compromise their beliefs and identity to access education. Forcing Kashmiri students to shave their beards not only infringes on personal freedom but goes against the spirit of inclusivity in Karnataka’s educational institutions,” he said.
Meanwhile, medical education department officials told The Indian Express that the principal has been issued a show-cause notice. “The dean has warned the principal already and asked them (college authorities) not to escalate the matter,” a government official said.
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