Varanasi School Denies Hijab Discrimination Claims Against Muslim Teacher

A controversy has emerged in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, after a viral video featured Samreen Bano, a Muslim teacher, alleging she was expelled from a private school for wearing a hijab. Bano claimed systemic discrimination against Muslim educators and stated she was paid a nominal fee and barred from work after protesting a ban on head coverings during a parent-teacher meeting. The school management, represented by director Usharaj Maurya, strongly rejected these allegations as a publicity stunt designed to gain social media followers. Maurya asserted that Bano was dismissed for violating rules by using a mobile phone in class, not for her attire. He highlighted that the school employs other Muslim teachers without issue and noted Bano's previous objections to Hindu cultural symbols like bindis and school prayers. Following the backlash, Bano deleted her video and ceased further commentary, while the school filed a written report with the Lohta police station. Authorities are gathering information, but both parties have indicated a desire to de-escalate the dispute rather than pursue prolonged legal action.