PUNE, 18 October 2007 — Muslims were up in arms against a Parsi-run school here after it suspended more than 170 Muslim students on Tuesday for painting henna on their hands during Eid.

The parents were shocked when the Sardar Dastur Girls High School stopped the students from attending classes for seven days. The school management had earlier said that according to school rules, applying henna on hands was not allowed.

When Arab News sought the comment of State Education Minister Vasant Purke on the issue, he said, “Strong disciplinary action will be taken against the school for issuing such an irresponsible order.

“I have ordered the deputy director of education to issue a notice to the school immediately.”

Purke said the school authorities should have explained the matter to the parents rather than taking action against the students.

Taken aback by the outrage, the school management withdrew the order yesterday morning. Girish Gulathi, chief administrative officer of the school, said the suspension order had been withdrawn and all students could attend the school.

Asked if action would be taken against the headmistress of the school, Gulathi said, “It will take some time.” Students, who were stopped from attending classes, were worried they would miss the oral examination scheduled for next Monday.

A delegation of parents met school Headmistress Arnita Batra earlier but she refused to budge saying the move was aimed at enforcing discipline. “Word needs to be sent across among students and parents about adhering to rules and maintaining discipline.

“Our school is known for its high standard of discipline and any violation would not be tolerated at any cost. Allowing them to attend classes will send a wrong signal to other students.”

Batra stressed that the school rules did not allow students to apply nail polish, henna or wear any jewelry when coming to school.

Fatima Syed, a four-year-old student said, “Madam scolded and warned us to remain out of school until the henna color fades. Don’t come to the school till Monday,” she said.

Altaf Shaikh, whose two daughters were suspended, said: “There is no clause mentioned in the school rules that bars application of henna on hands. On Eid, Muslim girls decorate their hands with henna.

“Had we been forewarned, we would not have done it. The school action is too extreme. The management should sack Batra,” he demanded.