Jewellery traders in Bihar have taken a unprecedented step to curb rising crimes in gold shops across the state. For the first time, shop owners have collectively decided not to allow entry or sell jewellery to customers who cover their faces using masks, hijabs, niqabs, or helmets. The decision has triggered a political debate, with the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) strongly opposing the move.
The Bihar unit of the All India Jewellers and Goldsmiths Federation (AIJGF) announced the decision, stating that customer and trader safety remains the top priority. According to federation leaders, criminals often enter jewellery shops with their faces covered, making identification difficult during thefts or robberies. As a result, traders believe the new rule will act as a preventive measure against organised crime.
Federation president Ashok Kumar Verma explained that CCTV cameras play a crucial role in identifying suspects after incidents. However, face coverings severely limit their effectiveness. Therefore, the association felt it necessary to implement strict entry norms. He added that similar crimes have occurred repeatedly across the country, forcing traders to take collective action.
In support of their decision, traders cited major robbery incidents in Bihar. In March last year, thieves reportedly entered a jewellery shop in Bhojpur district with their faces covered and escaped with gold ornaments worth nearly ₹25 crore. Similarly, another robbery took place in Siwan city in November, following the same pattern. These incidents, traders say, highlight the urgent need for stronger preventive steps.
Meanwhile, the opposition RJD has raised serious objections. Party leaders argue that the decision is unconstitutional and unfairly targets people from specific communities. They allege that banning customers wearing hijabs or niqabs violates religious freedom and personal rights. RJD leaders have demanded that the state government intervene and withdraw the policy immediately.
On the other hand, jewellery shop owners maintain that the rule applies equally to everyone, regardless of religion or background. They insist that the decision is purely driven by security concerns and not intended to hurt religious sentiments. Traders also clarified that customers can enter shops after uncovering their faces for identification purposes.
As the debate intensifies, the Bihar government has not yet issued an official response. However, the decision has sparked a wider discussion on balancing public safety with individual rights. For now, gold traders remain firm, stating that preventing crime is essential to protect both customers and businesses.
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