Karnataka bans head coverings in recruitment exams, allows mangalsutras and rings
In an effort to keep competitive exams fair, the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) issued new regulations banning all types of head coverings during the upcoming recruitment examinations of various boards and corporations. In addition, electronic devices like mobile phones and Bluetooth earphones have been strictly prohibited within the exam hall. This move is an aggressive stance against cheating and disorder in examination halls, as reported by news agency ANI.
“The authority also banned any kind of electronic gadgets…inside the examination hall.” – ANI reported.
On November 6, controversy struck as a woman taking the Karnataka Public Service Commission examination was asked to remove her mangalsutra prior to entering the examination hall. This sparked protests from Hindutva groups. As a result, a concession has been made in the new KEA regulations, allowing women to wear both mangalsutras and toe rings in the exam hall, while all other forms of jewelry remain prohibited.
These changes come just before the recruitment exams scheduled to take place across the state on November 18 and 19.
Previously, back in October, the Karnataka government allowed students to wear the Hijab during competitive exams. This decision taken by Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar sparked off protests from right-wing groups. Exams that happened on October 28 and 29 aimed to fill vacancies in five corporations.
Nevertheless, in light of recent complaints over the misuse of Bluetooth devices by some students, the state government has strongly decided to enact and uphold this ban.
The new regulations do not explicitly mention a ban on wearing hijabs, however, the implications of the new guidelines nonetheless indicate such a prohibition.
Karnataka Hijab Row
The Karnataka Hijab row emerged in January 2022 when the Government PU College, Udupi, reportedly stopped six girls from entry due to their wearing of the Hijab. This prompted protests outside the college. Simultaneously, male students of several colleges in Udupi began attending classes wearing saffron scarves. Repercussions of these protests rippled out across the state, inciting protests and agitations in various other parts of Karnataka.
On the topic, Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, post-oath taking, firmly stated that the education sector will not tolerate any “adulteration” under the guise of the New Education Policy (NEP). He further stated, “There was no question of a compromise on the issue of protecting the harmony and secular heritage of Karnataka.” he further asserted that hate politics has no place in his state and a fear-driven environment will not be tolerated.
In a bid to ensure fair exams, the government ordered a probe on November 11 into certain incidents at Kalaburagi and Yadgir examination centres. Investigations are underway into candidates allegedly using Bluetooth devices for cheating during KEA examinations held in October 2023.
Earlier in 2022, the Supreme Court supported the Karnataka government’s decision to ban the Hijab in classrooms that fall under the state’s jurisdiction. This prohibition was extended to include other board exams – like Classes 10 and 12 – as well as the common entrance test conducted by KEA.
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