The contentious topic of hijab-wearing has resurfaced, as medical students from Kerala request the allowance of hijab substitutes within operation theatres. These requests have been formally directed to the principal of the involved medical institution. Seven Muslim medical students from the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College are leading this appeal. They assert that, in accordance with Muslim customs that mandate the head be covered at all times, they should be permitted to don hijab substitutes during surgical operations. The medical college principal has indicated that a decision on the matter will be announced following consultations with surgeons and the head of the infection control department.