Haryana govt permits examinees to carry kirpan, mangalsutra inside centres
The clarification follows an earlier controversy triggered by instructions issued by the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC) that barred religious symbols during examinations.
PTC News Desk: The Haryana government on Tuesday clarified its position on carrying religious symbols into examination halls, stating that baptised Sikh candidates will be permitted to carry a small kirpan, while married women candidates may wear a mangalsutra. The General Administration Department issued an order to all administrative secretaries, deputy commissioners and universities, directing strict compliance with the notification.
“The state government has decided that Sikh candidates appearing for examinations conducted by all schools/colleges/universities/recruiting agencies in Haryana be allowed to wear and carry a kirpan, not exceeding 9 inches in length and 6 inches in blade length. Such candidates should report to the examination centre at least one hour before the scheduled time,” the order said.
As per the order, married women wearing a mangalsutra will be allowed to do so inside the examination hall, but such candidates must report to the examination centre at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time. Officials have been instructed to ensure that all staff, invigilators and security personnel are duly informed through a formal notification.
The clarification follows an earlier controversy triggered by instructions issued by the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC) that barred religious symbols during examinations. These guidelines, introduced as part of restrictions on unauthorised items, were perceived as targeting Sikh articles of faith, leading to protests by Sikh groups.