In a significant development, the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) has issued a ban on all forms of head cover during the upcoming recruitment exams for various boards and corporations in the state. Additionally, the authority has prohibited the use of electronic gadgets, including phones and Bluetooth earphones, inside examination halls, according to reports from news agency ANI.
This decision comes on the heels of a recent controversy on November 6, where a woman appearing for the Karnataka Public Service Commission examination was asked to remove her ‘mangalsutra’ before entering the exam hall. In response to protests by Hindutva groups, the KEA has now revised its stance, allowing women to wear ‘mangalsutra’ and toe rings while placing restrictions on other forms of jewelry.
The recruitment exams for various boards and corporations are scheduled to take place on November 18 and 19 across the state. The state government’s earlier decision to permit the wearing of Hijab during competitive exams in October had sparked protests by right-wing groups. However, in light of complaints regarding the use of Bluetooth devices by some students, the state government has now imposed a ban on electronic gadgets.
Notably, on November 11, the state government ordered a probe by the state CID into an incident where candidates at examination centers in Kalaburagi and Yadgir were allegedly using Bluetooth devices during exams.
The controversy around the Hijab in Karnataka dates back to January 2022, when six girls wearing the Hijab were allegedly barred from entering the Government PU College in Udupi. This incident sparked widespread protests and agitations in various parts of the state.
The Karnataka government, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, emphasizes the protection of harmony and secular heritage in the education sector. The recent decisions underscore the ongoing challenges and discussions surrounding religious symbols and attire in educational settings.
Sources By Agencies
