Burqa-Clad NEET UG Aspirant Briefly Stopped at Ajmer Centre, Allowed to Appear After Clarification

A National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG candidate in Rajasthan's Ajmer was allegedly denied entry to her examination centre on Sunday for wearing a burqa, triggering a brief dispute before authorities intervened and allowed her to take the examination.

The incident occurred during the nationwide NEET UG re-examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) following the cancellation of the May 3 exam due to a paper leak. More than 22 lakh candidates appeared for the re-test under heightened security arrangements.

According to the student, she arrived at the examination centre wearing the same attire—a burqa and dupatta—that she had worn during the original NEET UG examination on May 3 without facing any objections.

Speaking to reporters, the candidate alleged that centre officials initially asked her to remove her dupatta and later insisted that she remove her burqa before being allowed entry. She maintained that the NTA's guidelines permit candidates to wear religious attire, provided they report early for security checks.

"If the NTA has permitted us, then no one can stop us. If I am not allowed to appear in this attire, I will not take the examination," the student said.

Her father also cited NTA regulations, particularly provisions that allow candidates to wear articles of faith while appearing for the examination. He stated that the family had requested a female staff member to conduct security screening in a private area behind a screen, but claimed the request was initially declined.

Following the complaint, the matter was brought to the attention of officials. The NTA later clarified that the candidate had been permitted to enter the examination centre and successfully appeared for the re-examination.

Ajmer North Circle Officer Shivam Joshi said the issue arose due to a lack of clarity regarding examination rules. He added that after discussions with senior officials, the confusion was resolved peacefully.

"Apart from this, there were no disputes at the examination centre, and all students were admitted smoothly," Joshi said.

The NEET UG re-examination was conducted from 2 pm to 5:51 pm under enhanced surveillance measures. The NTA is now expected to begin the process of evaluating answer sheets and preparing the revised results.