Two incidents during the Common Entrance Test (CET) in Karnataka have sparked controversy after students were allegedly asked to remove their janivara (sacred thread). One student in Shivamogga was delayed, and another in Bidar was reportedly barred from writing the exam after refusing to remove the thread.
Two home guards assigned for exam security—not college staff—have been suspended, confirmed Shivamogga DC Gurudatt Hegde. Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar and School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa have condemned the incidents, assuring strict action pending a detailed report from the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA).
KEA clarified that no restriction on janivara was included in the dress code and called the incidents “condemnable.” They emphasized that responsibility for conduct lies with local DCs and SPs, who are trained and instructed beforehand.
The Bidar student, currently ineligible for engineering rank, may be allowed to reappear. KEA assured a “student-centered decision” to ensure fairness.
The ABVP has called for clear, inclusive exam guidelines and punishment for those responsible to prevent recurrence.
CET Dress Code (Excerpt):
- No metal ornaments (except mangalsutra & toe rings)
- Half-sleeve plain shirts for men; no jeans or full-sleeves for women
- No zips, embroidery, or large buttons
- Prohibited items: Electronics, food, metal water bottles, paper, caps, masks
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