A Nobel Prize winner has spoken out in support of six Indian students, who are fighting for their right to wear their hijabs in class

The teens in India have been protesting for weeks, drawing attention to their school’s ban on the head-scarf.

Malala Yousafzai has described the events as “horrifying”.

The row has created religious tensions within the Indian state, with clashes reportedly breaking out. Schools have also been forced to close for three days.

A petition with the court filed by one of the students argues that wearing the hijab was a fundamental right to religion, and is guaranteed by the constitution.

Malala was 15 years old when she survived an attack by the Taliban in Pakistan for speaking up for girls to be educated.