Tags: SC , Beard row , 'Talibanisation' , New Delhi

New Delhi, May 24 : Supreme Court's judgement refusing a Muslim student's plea to sport beards in educational institutions by observing it would not permit "Talibanisation of the country" has been challenged by the aggrieved youth by way of a fresh petition.

In his petition Salim, a student, had sought a review of the judgement and submitted that the observations on "Talibanisation" had caused incalculable damage to the country's image and the judiciary, besides, hurting the sentiments of the Muslim community.

The student submitted through counsel Abdul Karim Ansari that the judgement needs to be reviewed afresh as the core issue of a Muslim's right to sport a beard as guaranteed by Article 25 was violated by the school.

Article 25 provides every citizen the right to practice his/her religion.

Salim, a student of Nirmala Convent Higher Secondary School, a government-recognised minority institution in Madhya Pradesh, had earlier challenged the institution's rule which prohibited students from sporting a beard in the school.

After the Madhya Pradesh High Court upheld the validity of the rule, Salim appealed in the apex court which dismissed his plea and observed that secularism cannot be overstretched and that "Talibanisation" of the country cannot be permitted.

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