Hindustan Times ·
Kerala child rights panel calls for gender-inclusive rules, bars schools from penalising boys over hair length
Kerala's child rights panel said boys and gender-nonconforming children can choose their hair length and must not face discrimination or punishment at school.
The Keralam child rights panel has said boys and children who do not identify with a specific gender are free to grow their hair as they choose and directed schools not to discriminate against or penalise them over hair length.
In an order issued by commission member P Shajesh Bhaskar, the panel said such children had the right to maintain their hair and choose their dress according to their preference.
However, the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights made it clear that hair should be kept clean and properly maintained and should not cover the eyes or face, according to a statement.
During laboratory activities, sports competitions and practical classes, students should tie their hair or otherwise keep it secured with a hair band for safety reasons, the commission said.