Karnataka Examination Authority bans wearing hijab during exams

Mangalsutra and toe rings allowed

(The hijab is a piece of cloth covering the head and face of a Muslim woman)

Bengaluru (Karnataka) – The Karnataka State Examination Authority has implemented a ban on wearing hijab during examinations. While the term “hijab” is not explicitly mentioned, the directive specifies that a garment covering the head should not be used.’ Additionally, the wearing of jewellery, with the exception of Mangalsutra and toe rings, is also prohibited. Electronic items such as phones, Bluetooth devices, and earphones are not allowed. Furthermore, there are specific regulations regarding clothing; young women are prohibited from wearing high sandals, jeans, and t-shirts during exams scheduled for 18th – 19th November. This decision comes in the wake of a previous controversy where Hindu married women were required to remove all jewellery, including the Mangalsutra, during a similar exam last month. These measures are purportedly aimed at preventing exam malpractice.

Ban is targeting Muslims – Omar Abdullah’s criticism

Why is the Government interfering in what one should and should not wear? This ban has been imposed targeting Muslims. This is happening in Karnataka. This is what was happening in Karnataka earlier when BJP was in power and now it is also happening in Congress-rule. It is disappointing to see such orders being given by the Congress Government. I am asking Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to reflect on this matter and rescind the order.