Kirpan Ban: Rajasthan HC Exam Sparks Religious Discrimination Row
A Sikh candidate was barred from appearing for a Rajasthan High Court examination on July 27, 2025, for wearing a kirpan, igniting a major controversy. The incident has triggered widespread accusations of religious discrimination.
Sikh leaders and community members strongly condemned the action, asserting that it violates the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. They highlighted the kirpan’s significance as an article of faith.
The incident has prompted calls for immediate government intervention and the implementation of clear, uniform guidelines to safeguard the rights of Sikh candidates in all public examinations. This is not an isolated incident, and a broader policy is needed.
The controversy underscores the urgent need for sensitivity and inclusivity in public institutions. Failure to address this issue effectively risks further marginalizing religious minorities and undermining the principles of equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The Rajasthan government’s response will be crucial in setting a precedent for other states.
