Kashmiri Students’ Beard Controversy Resolved in Tamil Nadu, Check Details
March 7 (WD) Days after approximately two dozen Kashmiri students attending the College of Nursing at Government Chengalpattu Medical College in Tamil Nadu were compelled to shave their beards, the state Health Minister, Ma Subramanian, clarified on Wednesday that the issue has been resolved. This development was confirmed by the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association.
Addressing the media in Tamil Nadu, the State Health Minister informed that the issue has been resolved, and the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association thanked the state chief minister M.K Stalin for prompt intervention after the matter was resolved. Subramanian stated that Additional Principal Secretary Gagandeep Singh conducted an inquiry with the principal, who confirmed that the issue has been resolved.
Subramanian emphasized the need for medical colleges to exercise caution when issuing instructions to avoid misunderstandings. He stressed that students from Kashmir come to study under the All India Quota seats & PMSSS and that nobody should interfere with their food habits, clothes, culture, tradition, and religion. Such incidents, he added, are not only shocking but deeply concerning.
The Tamil Nadu Health Minister underscored the constitutional principles of equality, freedom, and dignity for all individuals, irrespective of their religious or regional backgrounds. He affirmed that the right to personal appearance, including the choice to grow a beard, is a fundamental aspect of an individual’s freedom and identity. The college administration apologized for this infringement.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association expressed gratitude to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Health Minister Ma Subramanian, and Additional Chief Secretary Gagandeep Bedi for their prompt assistance in resolving the matter. They acknowledged the unified action of these leaders in advocating for fundamental freedoms and fostering inclusivity in educational institutions. The association also thanked other opposition leaders for their support and for raising awareness about the issue.
