West Bengal SSC Issues New Dress Code for Group C and D Exams
The West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) has released a fresh set of guidelines for candidates appearing in the upcoming Group C and Group D recruitment examinations. Among the key instructions, applicants have been directed to avoid wearing closed footwear such as shoes or boots when entering examination centres. Instead, they are required to arrive wearing slippers or sandals.
The written examinations are scheduled to take place on March 1 and March 8 across various locations in the state. The commission has also made updated admit cards available for download, incorporating the revised instructions.
Why Closed Shoes Are Not Allowed
Siddhartha Majumdar, Chairman of the commission, explained that closed shoes create complications during the frisking process and could potentially undermine efforts to prevent unfair practices. He emphasised that the decision has been taken to uphold transparency and maintain the integrity of the examination process. There is a genuine concern that candidates might conceal mobile phones or other electronic devices inside their footwear, which could compromise the fairness of the test.
This measure follows recent incidents observed during board examinations, where some candidates were found attempting to hide devices in their shoes and using AI-based tools to gain an unfair advantage. The commission has taken note of these cases and decided to implement stricter protocols to curb such malpractice.
Restricted Items at Examination Centres
Apart from the footwear regulation, the commission has imposed a ban on carrying jewellery and metallic objects into the examination hall. Candidates are permitted to bring only a transparent pen and a clear water bottle. Wristwatches are strictly prohibited inside the venue.
Those who arrive with any restricted items must deposit them at the designated counter before entering the examination area. The chairman has made it clear that if any candidate is found in possession of a banned item, their candidature will be immediately cancelled.
Large Number of Expected Candidates
This year, approximately 8.13 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the Group C examination, while around 8.20 lakh applicants are likely to take part in the Group D test. To accommodate this massive turnout, the commission has set up nearly 1,700 examination centres throughout the state.
Candidates are advised to carefully read all instructions mentioned on their admit cards and comply with the guidelines to avoid any last-minute inconvenience. The commission has urged all applicants to cooperate with the security and frisking arrangements to ensure a smooth and orderly conduct of the examinations.
The new dress code and item restrictions are part of a broader effort to modernise examination security and ensure that all candidates are assessed on a level playing field. By eliminating potential loopholes, the commission aims to reinforce trust in the recruitment process and uphold the value of merit-based selection.
