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The move aims to protect religious and cultural rights while ensuring the smooth conduct of examinations
Chandigarh: The Haryana government on Tuesday permitted students and candidates to carry a kirpan and wear a mangalsutra during examinations conducted by various agencies across the state, subject to strict guidelines.
The decision, aimed at addressing recurring difficulties faced by Sikh students and married women candidates, has been communicated through detailed instructions applicable to examinations conducted by schools, colleges, universities and recruiting agencies.
According to a notification issued by the Chief Secretary’s Office, Haryana, Sikh candidates appearing in examinations will be allowed to wear and carry a kirpan, provided it remains within prescribed dimensions. The kirpan must not exceed 9 inches (22.86 cm) in total length, with the blade length restricted to 6 inches (15.24 cm).
Such candidates have been advised to report to their examination centres at least one hour before the scheduled start time to facilitate necessary security checks and avoid inconvenience.
The notification further states that married women candidates wearing a mangalsutra will also be allowed to wear it during examinations. These candidates are required to reach the examination centre at least 30 minutes in advance, an official statement said.
The state government clarified that the decision has been taken in light of various judgments of the Delhi High Court and the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which have consistently emphasised the need to safeguard religious and cultural rights while ensuring the smooth and secure conduct of examinations.
All Administrative Secretaries have been directed to ensure that the heads of departments, boards, corporations, universities, and recruiting agencies under their control issue the necessary instructions. Examination staff, invigilators and security personnel are to be adequately sensitised and informed so that the guidelines are implemented uniformly and without disruption.
