Karnataka Allows Limited Religious Symbols in Educational Uniforms

On 13 May 2026, the Karnataka government announced a revision to the dress code for educational institutions, permitting students to don limited traditional and religious symbols along with prescribed school uniforms. Minister for School Education and Literacy Madhu Bangarappa revealed the new directive, which replaces an earlier mandate issued by the previous government in February 2022. This earlier directive had been the basis for the controversial removal of religious symbols, contributing to incidents like the hijab row that sparked significant debate in the state. Bangarappa clarified that the updated order allows for select faith-based symbols, such as sacred threads and headscarves, to be worn openly in schools and colleges. While he did not specifically revoke the previous hijab mandate, the new decree encourages educational institutions to maintain secular environments without infringing on students’ individual religious beliefs. In a statement, Bangarappa noted, “Since the implementation of the 2022 order, we have been receiving concerns about students wearing faith-based symbols. After reviewing the issue, we concluded that institutional discipline can be maintained without restricting such symbols.” This decision comes in light of a recent incident during the Common Entrance Test (CET) in April, when students at a Bengaluru college were asked to remove their janivaras before entering the exam hall. The Minister emphasised that schools are not only vital for academic education but also crucial for instilling Constitutional values, including equality and mutual respect. The directive aligns with similar dress codes in Kendriya Vidyalaya schools in India and underscores the importance of institutional neutrality in educational settings. The Karnataka government’s move marks a significant shift in policy, aiming to foster inclusivity while ensuring safety and identification within educational environments.