Controversy Erupts Over Burqa Entry at NEET Exam in Ajmer
A Muslim student faced denial of entry to the NEET exam in Ajmer due to her burqa, igniting a significant debate over religious attire in educational settings. Kulsum Bano expressed her frustration, emphasizing her identity over the exam. Her father questioned the administration's actions, highlighting the NTA's guidelines that allow religious clothing. The situation escalated until police and senior officials intervened, ultimately resolving the issue and allowing the exam to proceed smoothly. This incident raises important questions about the intersection of religious rights and educational policies.
Jun 21, 2026, 16:21 IST
Incident at NEET UG Re-Exam in Ajmer
A contentious situation arose in Ajmer, Rajasthan, during the NEET UG re-examination. A Muslim student, dressed in a burqa and dupatta, was reportedly barred from entering the exam center just before the test commenced, leading to a prolonged debate and commotion at the venue.
Student Prioritizes Identity Over Exam
Kulsum Bano, who traveled from Beawar to take the exam, expressed her frustration, stating, "I wore the same attire during my exam on May 3. Today, during the security check, they first asked me to remove my dupatta and then insisted on taking off my burqa. If the NTA guidelines permit us to wear our religious attire, how can they stop us? My burqa and identity are more important to me than the exam. If they don’t allow me in this outfit, I won’t take the exam at all."
Father Questions Administration's Actions
The student's father, Mohammad Aleem, raised concerns about the administration, noting that his daughter had been preparing for this medical exam for three years. According to NTA Rule 18, students are allowed to take the exam in their religious attire. He had requested the center staff to call a female staff member to check his daughter privately, but initially, his request was ignored.
Resolution by Police and Senior Officials
As the situation escalated, police and senior officials arrived at the scene. CO North, Shivam Joshi, provided an update on the matter, stating, "The issue related to the burqa has been completely resolved. There was some confusion among the center staff regarding the rules, which senior officials clarified. Following this, the situation calmed down, and all students were allowed entry on time, allowing the exam to proceed smoothly."