Controversy Erupts in Bihar Over Jewelers' Face Covering Policy

A new policy by jewelers in Bihar prohibiting customers from wearing face coverings has sparked significant controversy and political debate. Following a similar decision in Jhansi, shop owners across the state are now requiring customers to remove masks, burqas, and helmets before entering. This measure, aimed at enhancing security, has raised concerns about the dignity of women, particularly as most jewelry customers are female. The president of the All India Jewelers and Goldsmith Federation has defended the policy, while political figures emphasize the need to balance security with respect for women's rights. The situation continues to evolve as reactions pour in from various stakeholders.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 7, 2026, 18:21 IST

New Policy Sparks Debate Among Jewelers in Bihar

A recent decision by jewelers in Bihar has ignited controversy after they posted notices outside their shops prohibiting entry to customers wearing burqas, masks, helmets, or face coverings. This move follows a similar initiative taken by jewelers in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, and is now making waves across Bihar. Shop owners statewide have displayed notices stating that customers must remove any face coverings before entering their stores, prompting a political discussion.

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Ashok Kumar Verma, the president of the All India Jewelers and Goldsmith Federation in Bihar, explained that this decision was made after a meeting with district heads across the state. He stated that customers will be asked to remove masks, helmets, burqas, or hijabs before entering jewelry stores. According to Verma, this measure is purely for security reasons, as there have been past incidents where individuals concealed their faces, complicating identification for law enforcement.

Verma mentioned that the Central SP of Patna has been informed about this decision via phone, and letters have been sent to the DGP, Chief Secretary, and Home Department.

He emphasized that since most jewelry customers are women, the request will be made politely, especially considering that many stores employ female sales staff. However, if a customer refuses to comply, the store will not proceed with the sale. He also noted that the rising prices of gold and silver have heightened security concerns. Representatives from various districts, including Gopalganj, Chapra, Dehri-on-Sone, Ara, Buxar, Bhagalpur, Gaya, Sasaram, Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Aurangabad, Jehanabad, Patna, and Nawada, participated in the meeting. Following this decision, most jewelry shops in Patna have displayed similar notices. Traders in Bakarganj, a prominent jewelry hub, deemed this step necessary and justified for security reasons.

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In response to this issue, Adil Hasan, the national spokesperson for the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) led by Asaduddin Owaisi, expressed support for the decision while emphasizing the importance of preserving women's dignity. Hasan stated that while security is crucial, the dignity of Muslim women is equally significant. If such a rule is enforced, stores should ensure that female sales staff engage with female customers.