A fresh controversy over exam-day dress code enforcement has surfaced in Surat after a NEET-UG 2026 candidate was allegedly asked to remove her Tulsi kanthi mala before entering the examination centre, triggering sharp reactions online and renewing questions over the handling of religious symbols during competitive exams.
The incident reportedly took place at an examination centre in the Amroli area of Surat, where the student arrived to appear for the national medical entrance test. According to reports, security personnel objected to the sacred necklace during frisking and asked that it be removed before she could enter the examination hall.
Emotional Exchange Before Entry
A video of the incident, now widely circulated on social media, shows an emotional exchange between the student and her father moments before the exam.
As time ran short, the father reportedly objected to the removal of the Tulsi mala and attempted to place it back around his daughter’s neck. The student, visibly anxious about missing the examination, eventually entered the centre without the religious thread. According to reports, the father was later escorted away from the premises.
Father’s Protest Sparks Wider Reaction
Outside the centre, the father strongly criticised the decision, questioning what he described as unequal treatment of religious symbols at examination venues.
The viral footage quickly intensified online debate, with many social media users raising broader questions about consistency in frisking rules, particularly concerning religious attire and faith-based articles worn by candidates.
NTA Says Incident Was “Wrong”
The National Testing Agency has reportedly termed the incident “wrong” and “unacceptable.”
According to recent reports, NEET guidelines had allowed candidates to wear articles of faith, provided they reported early enough for additional security checks. The agency has said a probe is underway and appropriate action will follow after receiving a field report from the examination centre.
Larger Debate Over Exam Protocols
The controversy has once again brought attention to the long-running debate over exam-day dress codes in India.
While examination authorities stress the importance of strict frisking and uniform rules to prevent malpractice, incidents like the one in Surat continue to raise questions over whether these rules are being applied consistently across candidates.
For now, the episode has added another layer to the wider national conversation around balancing security protocols with religious sensitivity in high-stakes examinations.
