Muslim Woman Alleges Denial of Medicines at Kanpur Hospital Over Hijab; Video Sparks Outrage.
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Ursula Horsman Memorial Hospital staff cite 'security concerns' for asking woman to remove headscarf; authorities yet to comment.
Kanpur, June 15, 2026:A Muslim woman has alleged she was denied medicines at a government hospital in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, after refusing to remove her hijab, triggering widespread criticism on social media over religious discrimination in public healthcare.
Incident at Ursula Horsman Memorial Hospital.
The incident occurred at Ursula Horsman Memorial Hospital, where the woman had gone for treatment, according to Kashmir Media Service. A video of her recounting the ordeal has gone viral.
She said after waiting nearly an hour following the issuance of her token number, two female doctors told her she would have to remove her hijab before medicines could be dispensed. Staff reportedly cited "security concerns and incidents of theft at the hospital" as justification.
Woman Questions Selective Enforcement
Questioning the directive, the woman said: “I can understand being asked to remove a mask for identification, but why should I remove my hijab?” She noted CCTV cameras are installed at the hospital and said the policy appeared selectively enforced against Muslim women.
“Other women were being allowed to enter without any such restrictions. Why are only Muslim women being targeted?” she asked, calling the treatment discriminatory and humiliating.
Online Backlash and Political Reaction.
The video has sparked criticism online, with activists and members of the Muslim community questioning the linking of religious attire to security concerns. Critics argued such actions contribute to "a growing sense of marginalization among Muslims".
The incident adds to a series of hijab-related controversies in India. Similar allegations surfaced at Dufferin District Women’s Hospital in Kanpur, where a woman claimed she was denied treatment unless she removed her hijab.
As of Monday, hospital authorities and the Uttar Pradesh government have not issued an official statement on the Ursula Hospital incident. The BJP has previously said welfare schemes are extended without discrimination under its "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" policy.
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