The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) has implemented stringent measures to prevent malpractice during recruitment exams for various boards and corporations. While the dress code does not explicitly prohibit the wearing of hijabs, it is indirectly implied by the new guidelines. The directive aims to curb exam malpractices involving the use of Bluetooth devices, according to an official statement.
In a recent incident on November 6, a woman taking the Karnataka Public Service Commission examination was initially asked to remove her ‘mangalsutra’ before entering the exam hall. Following protests from Hindutva groups, the KEA has revised its stance, permitting women to wear mangalsutras and toe rings while restricting other types of jewellery, the statement mentioned.
The upcoming recruitment exams for various boards and corporations are scheduled for November 18 and 19 across the state. In October, the Karnataka government had granted permission for students to wear hijabs during competitive exams, leading to protests from right-wing groups. However, due to reported instances of Bluetooth device usage by some students, the state government has decided to enforce a ban this time, as per the statement.
On November 11, the state government ordered a probe by the state CID into an incident at Kalaburagi and Yadgir examination centres, where candidates allegedly used Bluetooth devices during exams conducted by the KEA in October 2023. The exam dress code prohibits girls from wearing high-heeled shoes, jeans and T-shirts, while men are allowed to wear half-sleeve shirts that are not tucked into their trousers.
In 2022, the supreme court upheld the Karnataka government’s decision to ban the wearing of hijabs in classrooms under state jurisdiction. This order was extended to other board exams, including Class 10th and 12th, as well as the Common Entrance Test conducted by the KEA, it added.
With inputs from ANI.