Karnataka Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar issuing clarification over dress code said that there is no ban on hijabs during the upcoming examinations for boards and corporations.
The announcement comes just ahead of various recruitment exams scheduled for November 18 and 19 across Karnataka.
The KEA's directive explicitly states that wearing "any garment or cap that covers head, mouth, or ears" is prohibited in the exam hall, citing efforts to prevent malpractices involving Bluetooth devices.
Minister clarifies objective of dress code
Minister Sudhakar asserted that the primary goal behind the dress code was to prevent malpractices during exams. He reasoned that since hijabs do not cover the mouth, the use of Bluetooth devices for cheating would not be possible.
He further stated that the dress code rules were being misinterpreted.
Addressing concerns regarding hijab-wearing candidates, the minister revealed that women donning hijabs would need to arrive at exam centers an hour earlier for thorough frisking.
To enhance security measures, more metal detectors will be introduced to prevent cheating incidents that have occurred in previous years.
Minister dismisses criticism
Minister Sudhakar defended the dress code, asserting that the rules were not new and had been in place earlier. He clarified that the prohibition on unnecessary caps or scarves did not apply to hijabs, aiming to dispel any confusion surrounding the regulations.
