Hijab, dupatta allowed for Maharashtra TET, but face must be visible: Exam body

The Maharashtra State Council of Examination has revised the TET dress code for women candidates days before the June 28 exam. The change permits hijab, burqa and dupatta after representations, while requiring full face visibility for CCTV monitoring.

In Short

• Council changed earlier bar after representations from women candidates
• MSCE cited risks from AI gadgets, Bluetooth devices and hidden cameras
• Nearly six lakh candidates must remain visible on live CCTV feeds

Just days before the Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (TET), the Maharashtra State Council of Examination (MSCE) has clarified that women candidates can wear a hijab, burqa or dupatta during the examination.

However, no clothing will be allowed above the neck while inside the examination hall, ensuring that the candidate's face remains fully visible.

The revised clarification comes after several women candidates submitted representations against the council's earlier instructions, which had prohibited hijab, burqa, masks and caps during the examination scheduled for June 28.

WHY THE RULE HAS BEEN REVISED

In its official note, the council said the Teacher Eligibility Test is a highly sensitive examination where preventing malpractice is a priority. It pointed to growing concerns over the misuse of electronic devices such as AI-enabled gadgets, Bluetooth devices and miniature cameras concealed in clothing.

According to the council, the faces of nearly six lakh candidates must remain clearly visible on live CCTV footage throughout the examination to maintain transparency and prevent unfair practices.

The MSCE also referred to a 2024 Bombay High Court judgment, which upheld a college dress code and observed that wearing a hijab or naqab was not an essential religious practice.

WHAT CANDIDATES CAN CARRY

The council clarified that female candidates are free to wear clothing such as a dupatta, covering or burqa while entering the examination centre. However, during the examination, the face, ears, head and mouth must remain uncovered so that CCTV cameras can clearly record each candidate.

Apart from the dress code, candidates will not be allowed to wear shoes or socks inside the examination hall.

Only a black or blue ballpoint pen, identity proof, a photocopy of the identity document and a transparent water bottle will be permitted.

The council also noted that similar face visibility norms are followed in several national and state-level recruitment examinations, including those conducted by UPSC, SSC, IBPS, SBI, RRB, MPSC, GPSC and BPSC.

- Ends