Bengaluru: In the previous year, the topic of students wearing hijabs to schools and colleges in the state sparked communal tensions and widespread unrest. Presently, pro-Hindu groups are voicing their dissatisfaction regarding the government’s choice to permit students to wear hijabs during exams.

Education Minister MC Sudhakar has affirmed that candidates participating in recruitment and competitive exams held by state government bodies like the Karnataka Examination Authority will have the right to wear the hijab. Sudhakar emphasized, “While some may voice objections over minor matters, we must respect and uphold the rights of every individual.”

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has granted permission for students to wear hijabs while taking their exams, including those for positions in the boards of corporations. This decision has incited anger from pro-Hindu organizations.

KEA has outlined specific guidelines for candidates choosing to wear a hijab during the exams. These guidelines include candidates arriving at the examination center one hour prior to the test and undergoing a screening process conducted by female staff. Ramya, the director of the Karnataka Examination Authority, explained, “We have provided this option to prevent any disruptions at the examination center.

The examinations for the recruitment of positions in various corporations are scheduled for this month, taking place on October 28 and October 29. The Karnataka Examination Authority has confirmed that candidates are permitted to wear hijabs while appearing for these exams.