A brief commotion broke out outside a NEET-UG re-test centre in Ahmedabad on Sunday after some parents objected to students being asked to remove kanthi (Hindu sacred threads) during security checks, while candidates wearing hijab were allowed entry.
The incident took place at an examination centre in the Vastrapur area, where police later intervened to calm the situation.
Parents Raise Objection Over Dress Code Rules
According to police, the issue started when exam centre staff asked students to remove certain items, including sacred threads and accessories, as part of the frisking process under the National Testing Agency’s (NTA) dress code.
Some parents questioned why Hindu students were being asked to remove kanthi while Muslim girls wearing hijab were being allowed inside.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Jayesh Brahmbhatt said, “The issue arose due to confusion regarding the NTA dress code rules. Certain items were being checked as part of the prescribed screening process.”
Hindu Group and AIMIM Members Gather Outside Centre
The disagreement led to a brief gathering of members from a Hindu organisation and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) outside the examination centre, increasing tension for a short period.
Police officials quickly stepped in and explained the NTA guidelines to both groups and concerned parents.
Authorities said the situation was brought under control without major disruption to the examination.
Two Taken to Police Station, Later Released
Police said two members linked to a Hindu organisation were taken to the police station after allegedly creating a disturbance near the exam venue.
Brahmbhatt clarified, “They were not arrested or detained. They were brought in, the rules were explained to them, and they were later released.”
NTA Guidelines Allow Religious Attire With Screening
The National Testing Agency allows candidates to wear religious attire such as hijab, turbans, or other faith-based clothing, provided they report early for additional security screening.
Police said the examination authorities were only following these prescribed guidelines and that confusion over the rules triggered the misunderstanding.
Exam Continues Peacefully
After police intervention, the situation returned to normal and the NEET re-test continued without further issues.
Officials said around 10,445 students are appearing for the re-test in Ahmedabad across 23 examination centres.
The NEET-UG 2026 re-test is being conducted nationwide after the cancellation of the May 3 examination amid an ongoing investigation into the paper leak case.
