In a significant move to respect religious sentiments while maintaining examination integrity, the Haryana Government has issued fresh instructions permitting candidates to carry Kirpans and wear Mangalsutras inside examination centers across the state. The decision clears the air on the carrying of religious symbols during exams conducted by schools, colleges, universities, and recruiting agencies like the HSSC and HPSC.
Key Guidelines The order, issued by the General Administration Department to all administrative secretaries and deputy commissioners, lays down specific conditions for the relaxation:
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For Sikh Candidates (Kirpan):
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Permissible Size: Baptized Sikh candidates are allowed to carry a Kirpan, provided its total length does not exceed 9 inches, and the blade length does not exceed 6 inches.
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Reporting Time: To facilitate proper security screening, such candidates must report to the examination center at least one hour before the scheduled time.
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Screening: If a candidate fails to report early or does not cooperate with the screening for hidden electronic devices, they may be denied entry with the religious symbol.
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For Married Women (Mangalsutra):
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Married female candidates are permitted to wear their Mangalsutra inside the examination hall.
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Reporting Time: They are required to report at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the exam for checking.
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Context & Reason The decision addresses recurring controversies where strict bans on metallic objects often led to Sikh candidates being asked to remove their articles of faith, sparking protests. The government stated that the new rules align with judgments from the Delhi High Court and the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which emphasize safeguarding religious rights while ensuring the smooth and fair conduct of examinations.
Official Statement “The officers concerned must ensure that the staff, invigilators, and security personnel are informed by way of issuing a notification in this regard so that candidates do not face harassment,” the official order stated.
