New Delhi, Mar 15: A plea was Tuesday filed in the Supreme Court challenging the Karnataka High Court verdict which dismissed pleas seeking permission to wear Hijab inside the classroom, saying Hijab is not a part of the essential religious practice in Islamic faith.

The petition has been filed in the apex court by a Muslim student against the high court judgement.

Earlier in the day, the high court dismissed the petitions filed by a section of Muslim students from the Government Pre-University Girls College in Udupi, seeking permission to wear Hijab inside the classroom.

The prescription of school uniform is only a reasonable restriction, constitutionally permissible which the students cannot object to, the high court said.

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Mangaluru: Eminent Konkani writer and 2025 Sahitya Akademi awardee H. M. Pernal was felicitated at a grand function held at the Town Hall on Friday evening. The programme brought together literary figures, community leaders and admirers to celebrate Pernal's contribution to Konkani literature.

The felicitation ceremony was organised by Vision Konkani and presided over by NRI Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Michael D'Souza. Renowned Kannada poet and writer Jayant Kaikini attended as the chief guest.

The evening began with a musical presentation titled "Sitar Fusion" by Rafique Khan on sitar, Rajesh Bhagwat on tabla and Vaman Karkala providing rhythm accompaniment.

This was followed by a recital of H. M. Pernal's poems by Eddie Siqueira and Mahammad Muaad GM.

A special interactive session on "Celebration of Life and Literature" was later held with H. M. Pernal. The discussion was led by Shakuntala R. Kini and Wilson Kateel, offering insights into Pernal's literary journey and personal experiences.

During his address, Jayant Kaikini struck a humorous note by saying that the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited should reserve seats for Konkani writers. He said he was delighted that H. M. Pernal had received recognition for his literary work through the Sahitya Akademi award.

Kaikini expressed concern that while many people are writing poetry today, fewer are reading the works of established and accomplished writers. He noted that great artists throughout history have always shown interest in multiple forms of art rather than limiting themselves to a single field. Describing Pernal as an important pillar of Konkani literature, he said the writer's achievements deserved to be celebrated.

Presiding over the programme, Michael D'Souza said that quality is more important than quantity, and added that the same principle applies to literature. He called upon the community to support H. M. Pernal in his literary work and encouraged the veteran writer to continue serving the Konkani language. He also thanked all those who attended the event.

In his response, H. M. Pernal thanked the organisers, his family, community members and all those who had supported him over the years. He also shared his personal journey and recounted key moments from his life and literary career.

The programme included an introduction to the awardee, felicitation by the organising committee, and honours from various Konkani organisations.

Titus Noronha delivered the introductory remarks, while convener Melvyn Rodrigues proposed the vote of thanks.

The event concluded with a celebration attended by members of the Konkani literary community and admirers of H. M. Pernal.