Jewelry traders in the Indian state of Bihar have banned customers who cover their faces, including those wearing hijabs, niqabs, or burqas, from entering jewelry shops, triggering a political controversy.
The All India Jewelers & Gold Federation (AIGJF) stated that the decision was made due to security concerns.
The organization announced that any customer, male or female, who covers their face with a scarf, burqa, niqab, or helmet must reveal their face for identification before making any purchase.
Meanwhile, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) spokesperson Ejaz Ahmed strongly condemned the decision, calling it unconstitutional.
He said the move targets religious freedom under the pretext of security and hurts the religious sentiments of Muslims. He alleged that the agenda behind this decision is driven by the BJP and RSS and demanded that AIGJF immediately revoke the rule.
Ashok Kumar Verma, the state president of the Jewelers Federation in Bihar, clarified that Bihar is the first state where this rule has been implemented statewide. He explained that the step was taken solely for security reasons, following rising gold and silver prices and recent incidents of theft.
Ashok Kumar Verma emphasized that the restriction is not aimed at any particular religion and applies equally to both men and women. He said staff would politely request customers’ cooperation, and no force would be used. The police have also expressed support for the measure.
The issue has once again highlighted the ongoing debate in Bihar over balancing security and religious freedom, while political reactions continue to pour in.
