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NEW DELHI, INDIA, January 18, 2004: Expressing concern over its officers (both men and women) and jawans wearing “tilaks, vibhuti, birthstone rings and bracelets,” on January 8, the Indian Army Headquarters sent a circular to all its formations detailing strict instructions on the “use of religious symbols” while in uniform. These instructions, issued by Adjutant General A. Natarajan with the cooperation of Army Chief N.C. Vij, are in addition to the existing dress regulations covered under 1962 regulations. The new instructions are especially strict for the Indian Army’s women officers even though there are just about 75 of them in the million-strong force. They prohibit the use of bangles, ear-studs, lipstick and nail-polish. Sindoor can be used but only if it is not visible when a beret is on. Men officers and jawans can only wear a signet ring on the left hand. Multiple sacred threads on the wrist is not allowed. Only a single sacred thread can be worn and that, too, on the day of Puja. Kadas (steel bracelets) can be worn only by Sikh officers and men or officers commanding Sikh troops. No one can sport “tilak, vibhuti or any other religious symbol” while in uniform. No charms or sacred thread can be worn around the neck. If worn, no part should be visible outside the uniform.

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