Gujarat : Exam Supervisor suspended over Hijab Controversy in Ankleshwar

Bharuch : An incident during a board exam at Lions School in the GIDC area of Ankleshwar, Gujarat, has ignited controversy after a female supervisor instructed Muslim students to remove their hijabs during the class 10 mathematics paper. The move, citing the need for facial visibility during the exam, left the students and their parents deeply upset.

Parents alleged that their daughters were left in tears for half an hour, impacting their ability to focus on the exam. They criticized the school’s actions as disrespectful and likened the treatment of their daughters to that of criminals.

Following a complaint, a petition was submitted to the District Education Officer (DEO) of Bharuch, detailing the events and accusing the school principal of attempting to break the morale of the students.

In response, Bharuch DEO Swatiba Raulji confirmed receipt of the petition and initiated an investigation. The school principal maintained that the supervisor’s actions were in accordance with board guidelines, which mandate facial visibility for exam security.

However, upon reviewing CCTV footage, the DEO found merit in the parents’ complaint. Consequently, the supervisor involved has been suspended and transferred to another examination center. The DEO has also issued instructions to ensure that future actions by examination officials are conducted with sensitivity towards religious beliefs.

The incident underscores the importance of respecting religious diversity and ensuring that examination protocols are implemented without causing distress to students. It also highlights the need for clear guidelines and training for examination officials to handle such situations with sensitivity and empathy.