Bihar jewellery shops ban customers wearing burqas, hijabs, helmets as traders introduce a new security rule across several districts. The Bihar jewellery shops ban customers wearing burqas, hijabs, helmets applies to all face coverings, including scarves, masks, and helmets, to ensure clear identification of visitors.
Jewellery shop owners say robberies and fraud cases have increased in recent years. Gold and silver prices have also risen sharply. Traders believe clear visibility of customers will help reduce crime and protect staff and buyers.
Notices announcing the rule have appeared outside many jewellery stores in Patna and other towns. Shop associations insist the decision targets security risks, not religion. They say every customer will receive equal treatment, regardless of background.
The move has sparked a political debate in Bihar. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leaders criticised the decision and called it discriminatory. They argued that it hurts religious freedom and personal choice.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), however, supported the traders. BJP leaders said shop owners have the right to protect their businesses. They urged people not to give the issue a communal angle.
State officials have not announced any formal intervention so far. The debate continues as traders defend safety, while political parties clash over rights and intentions.
