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The right to sport a beard while in service, which was earlier enjoyed only by Sikhs in the Rajasthan police, has now been extended to other policemen too on 'religious grounds'.
The new government order is aimed at Muslims, an official spokesman said. However, those wishing to sport a beard would have to seek prior permission in writing from the department, sources said.
Permission is given subject to the condition that the beard has a 'neat and clean' appearance at all times. Any violation of this condition would invite disciplinary action.
Once a policeman opts to sport a beard, he would not be allowed to revert to the clean shaven look without seeking prior written permission for the same, the spokesman said.
It would be up to the police department to take decision on individual applications on merit.
The department is yet to receive an application from any policeman in this regard, the spokesman added.
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