Srinagar: Kashmiri Muslim students at Sri Soubagaya College of Nursing in Bengaluru have accused the college administration of refusing permission to offer Friday prayers, which they consider fundamental to their faith, The New Indian Express reported.
The students claimed their repeated requests for accommodation have been denied, leading to distress and a violation of their religious rights.
The students argued that the denial contravenes Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to freely practise religion. “Being forced to miss Friday prayers violates our religious practices and causes immense distress. No student should have to give up their beliefs to pursue education,” they stated in their appeal, according to the newspaper.
The students have urged Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to intervene and ensure colleges respect the religious practices of all students. They have also sought support from Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, requesting him to raise the matter with the Karnataka government.
In a formal appeal, the students expressed that the college’s stance has caused emotional distress and disrupted their ability to fulfil their religious obligations. Despite efforts to reach Sri Soubagaya College of Nursing for a response, the administration was unavailable for comment. The newspaper, however, did not offer any idea about how many Kashmiri students are enrolled in the particular college.
