In a recent turn of events, the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) faced backlash after releasing a new dress code that seemingly banned all forms of head cover, including hijabs, in recruitment exams for various boards and corporations. However, Karnataka’s Higher Education Minister, MC Sudhakar, promptly clarified that there is no ban on hijabs during these exams.
The initial dress code, introduced as a measure to curb malpractices like cheating through Bluetooth devices, triggered criticism from diverse groups and politicians, including AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Despite the backlash, Minister Sudhakar emphasized that the intention behind the dress code was to prevent malpractices, particularly the misuse of Bluetooth devices for cheating.
Sudhakar highlighted that hijabs, which do not cover the mouth, would not facilitate cheating through Bluetooth devices. To address concerns, women candidates wearing hijabs will be required to report to exam centers one hour early for thorough frisking. Additionally, the authorities plan to enhance security measures by introducing more metal detectors to prevent cheating.
The minister clarified that the rules against wearing unnecessary caps or scarves did not apply to hijabs, and the recent rules were being misinterpreted. He mentioned that similar rules existed in the past, and the objective was to increase vigilance during exams.
In response to political leaders’ criticism, Sudhakar expressed confusion about the dissemination of incorrect information and asserted that there was nothing wrong with the rules. The announcement comes ahead of scheduled exams for various boards and corporations on November 18 and 19 across the state.
