New Delhi

As the hijab row is intensifying in Karnataka, the state government has announced the closure of schools and colleges for three days.

This decision was taken as rival groups of students – one wearing saffron stoles and the other accompanying hijab wearing women - clashed in the Udupi town as the hearing on a petition challenging the ban on hijab imposed by several colleges of the State, was going on in the Karnataka high Court.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai appealed to the students to not indulge in violence and focus on studies.  

He said, “I appeal to all the students, teachers and management of schools and colleges as well as people of Karnataka to maintain peace and harmony. I have ordered closure of all high schools and colleges for next three days.”

The Karnataka High Court has also requested the students and the public to maintain peace and amity as the issue of hijab was sub-judice. The judge made this remark as he was informed about the case leading to clashes outside the court.

The court at the outset said, it will be guided by Law and constitution and not by emotions” in deciding the petition.

The hearing on the case will continue on Wednesday.