In another distressing episode linked to India’s growing hijab controversy, a Muslim girl was reportedly barred from taking the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) exam in Maharashtra after she refused to remove her hijab. The incident occurred at a designated exam centre in Washim district.
According to reports, the 18-year-old medical aspirant was told by the invigilators that she could not appear for the test unless she removed her hijab, citing dress code guidelines by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The student and her parents pleaded for a female staff member to conduct a frisking process instead, but their request was allegedly denied.
The student’s family claimed she left the exam centre in tears, having prepared for the test for over two years. The incident has drawn criticism from civil society, minority rights groups, and several political leaders, who say the move amounts to religious discrimination and violates the right to education.
Activists are demanding the NTA clarify guidelines regarding religious attire and ensure sensitivity in their implementation. No official statement has yet been released by the examination authorities or local administration.
