DCP Kishore Babu of City Armed Reserve has issued a circular to his force, barring them from applying vibhuti-kumkum (sacred ash and red turmeric powder) on their forehead or tying sacred threads on their hands.

Why? He believes these are violations of the police manual.

But that's not all. Kishore Babu has also barred women from wearing ear rings and bangles, as the police manual doesn't allow it.

He believes these acts demonstrate religious bias.

However, his circular doesn't mention Muslim officers growing beards or fasting during Ramzan.

It doesn't bar Muslims from praying on Fridays during office hours, Christians from wearing cross chains, or Sikhs from wearing turbans.

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