Kashmiri doctor leaves Tamil Nadu medical seat over beard controversy

India Jun 27, 2025

Dr. Zubair Ahmad, a Kashmiri doctor, had to give up his spot in a top nephrology program at KMCH, Coimbatore, because of the college's strict dress code—no full beards allowed.
Dr. Ahmad keeps his beard for religious reasons and even offered to cover it with a mask, but the college said no.

'Rules like this can push minority students away from opportunities'

After stepping down, Dr. Ahmad asked for his deposit back and requested to participate in the third round of counseling.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association called out the policy as unfair and against religious freedom, saying rules like this can push minority students away from opportunities.
They've urged Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister to review such policies so students aren't excluded just because of their faith or identity.