UP Government Revises Key Job Exam Schedule Amid Protests.
The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) has announced changes to its upcoming PCS and RO-ARO exam schedules following large-scale protests by candidates in Prayagraj. Originally, the PCS preliminary exam was set for two shifts on December 7 and 8, while the RO-ARO preliminary exam was planned for December 22 and 23 in three shifts. Responding to candidates’ demands, the PCS exam will now be held in a single day, though the RO-ARO exam has been postponed, with a new date pending.
In recent months, competitive exams across the country have been marred by paper leak incidents, leading the UPPSC to initially schedule exams in multiple shifts to enhance security. However, student protests highlighted logistical difficulties, prompting Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to instruct UPPSC to consider candidates’ concerns. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak reiterated the government’s commitment to students’ welfare and transparent exam processes.
While many PCS aspirants welcomed the change, some RO-ARO candidates remain dissatisfied, citing concerns about an official decision for their exam. Rahul Pandey, an RO-ARO aspirant, mentioned ongoing protests due to the lack of an official notice on the UPPSC website. Additionally, recent protests saw disruptions, leading to police intervention and an FIR filed against individuals involved in vandalism.
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav expressed support for the students, critiquing the BJP for scheduling issues, stating, “Those who advocate One Nation One Election struggle with single-day exams.”