Bihar has become the first state in India where jewellery traders have collectively decided to deny entry and sale to customers whose faces are fully covered, including those wearing hijab, niqab, burqa, masks, or helmets, citing security concerns.
The decision has been announced by the Bihar unit of the All India Jewellers and Gold Federation (AIJGF) and is being implemented across major jewellery markets in the state.
What the Rule Says
- Customers must keep their face clearly visible inside jewellery shops.
- Entry and purchase will be denied if the face is fully concealed.
- The restriction applies uniformly to all face coverings, regardless of gender or religion.
Jewellers say customers may be requested to briefly uncover their faces for identification before being served.
Reason Cited by Jewellers
The traders’ body has justified the move on security grounds, claiming that:
- Rising gold prices have increased robbery risks.
- Several thefts reportedly involved suspects with covered faces, making identification difficult.
- CCTV effectiveness is compromised when faces are concealed.
The federation maintains that the rule is preventive, not religious, and aimed solely at protecting staff and customers.
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Political and Public Reaction
The decision has triggered a political backlash.The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has called the move unconstitutional, arguing that it disproportionately affects Muslim women and violates religious freedom.
Jewellers, however, reject the allegation, stating that the rule also applies to masks and helmets, not just religious attire.
Legal Status
- The rule is not a government order but a trade association directive.
- No official notification has yet been issued by the Bihar government or police authorities.
- Legal scrutiny is likely if the policy is challenged in court.
Why This Matters
This move places Bihar at the center of a broader national debate on:
- Security vs individual rights
- Private business autonomy vs constitutional freedoms
- Uniform rules vs indirect religious impact
For now, the restriction stands, with jewellers asserting compliance is necessary for safety.
