Court in a twist over ‘lungi’ ban

Withdraws notice banning attire at Kishanganj court after sharp protests

Alocal court in Bihar has withdrawn its order prohibiting people from coming to the court premises in “lungi” (a type of sarong) under heavy protests from lawyers and the local residents. “Lungi” is a traditional wraparound garment worn from the waist to the ankles.

The protests began soon after a notice, issued at the level of the court manager, earlier this month, banned clients from coming to the premises of Muslim-dominated Kishanganj court in the “lungi”. Kishanganj is the only district in Bihar where Muslims outnumber Hindus and the “lungi ban” was affecting them much.

The move met with strong protests as some people shared their photographs wearing “lungis” on various social networking sites as a mark of protests, while the advocates opposed the order tooth and nail, saying it was just impossible for them to go against the local culture. “Lungi is the most popular dress of the local Muslims in this part of Bihar. How can we stop them?” asked district advocate association secretary Om Kumar.

Eventually the authorities withdrew the order in the weekend.