Haryana Permits Kirpan and Mangalsutra in Exams Under Specific Guidelines

The Haryana government has issued guidelines allowing Sikh students to carry a kirpan and married women to wear a mangalsutra during examinations conducted by schools, colleges, universities, and recruiting agencies. The kirpan must not exceed nine inches in total length, with a blade length limit of six inches. Candidates must report early to exam centers—Sikh candidates one hour prior and married women 30 minutes prior. This decision follows court rulings emphasizing protection of religious rights while ensuring smooth exam conduct, with administrative officials instructed to inform exam staff accordingly.