Bihar Orders Strict Teacher Dress Code

New Dress Code for Bihar Teachers

The Bihar education department has issued a directive requiring all teachers and non-teaching staff in state-run schools and educational institutions to wear only dignified formal attire during working hours. This order also prohibits activities such as DJ setups, disco dancing, and other forms of “vulgar or low-standard events” on school premises.

Key Changes Announced

• Formal Attire Only: Teachers and staff must adhere to a formal dress code.
• DJ Ban: A complete ban has been placed on DJ sound systems and related entertainment activities.
• Limited Cultural Performances: Only disciplined and dignified dance and music performances, scheduled according to the academic calendar, will be permitted.

Reasons for the New Policy

According to an official circular issued by education department director Vijay Kumar Pandey on October 30, 2026, the department is concerned about widespread non-compliance with previous directives regarding maintaining a professional and dignified environment in schools. The circular cited reports of staff arriving in casual wear, including jeans and T-shirts, and instances of inappropriate entertainment taking place.

Emphasis on Academic Environment

The department emphasized that such conduct negatively impacts the academic environment. It drew a parallel to the strict formal dress codes enforced by the Supreme Court of India and the Patna high court, asserting that educators should mirror this institutional discipline.

Implementation and Monitoring

School authorities have been directed to enforce the new dress code immediately. District education heads are tasked with monitoring school premises to ensure full compliance. Classrooms are to be maintained as spaces for serious learning, not for casual gatherings or parties.

Next Steps

The circular calls for strict enforcement of the new rules. Further details regarding the specific types of acceptable formal attire are not yet specified.

Source: Hindustan Times. Featured image credit: Hindustan Times.