Kerala Child Rights Panel Says Boys Can Keep Long Hair in Schools
Kerala’s child rights commission has directed schools not to discriminate against students over hair length or grooming choices, subject to hygiene and safety requirements.
The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has said that boys and children who do not identify with a particular gender can choose how they maintain their hair, provided basic hygiene and safety requirements are followed. The commission has directed schools not to harass, exclude or discriminate against students because of their hair length or grooming choices.
The order, issued by commission member P Shajesh Bhaskar, followed two petitions concerning school grooming rules. It stated that students may keep long hair as long as it remains clean and does not obstruct their vision or cover their face. Schools can require students to secure their hair during laboratory work, sports and practical classes for safety reasons. The commission also advised against hair dyes or chemicals that could pose health risks.
The panel said children who do not identify with a particular gender should also be allowed to choose their hairstyles and clothing according to their preferences. It urged schools to focus on education, academic development and personality rather than physical appearance.
The commission noted that specific guidelines on hair length and grooming for such students do not appear to have been issued by the Kerala Education Department or CBSE. It called for urgent guidelines involving consultations with affected students and directed that an action-taken report be submitted within 45 days.
