Maharashtra minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Nitesh Rane has written a letter to Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, urging a ban on burqas for students appearing for the Class 10 and 12 state board examinations. Rane has raised concerns over possible cheating, arguing that allowing students to wear burqas inside examination halls could increase the chances of malpractice.
In his letter, Rane stated, “Students appearing for Class 10 and 12 board examinations are permitted to take the exam while wearing a burqa. Additionally, if necessary, female police officers, officials, or teaching staff should be appointed for case-by-case verification, as directed at the government level.”
He further emphasized that these examinations play a crucial role in shaping a student’s future and that it is essential to ensure they are conducted fairly and transparently. “The government has issued specific guidelines to prevent cheating, and it is necessary to follow them strictly,” Rane said.
The BJP leader also highlighted security concerns, stating that verifying the identity of students wearing burqas could become difficult and that there is a risk of candidates using electronic devices for unfair means. He warned that such situations could lead to law-and-order issues, which may harm many students.
Rane concluded his letter by urging the education minister to take immediate action. “It is requested that Class 10 and 12 candidates be prohibited from entering examination centers while wearing a burqa. Kindly issue appropriate instructions to all concerned authorities,” he wrote.