Addressing the concerns of exam aspirants, the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) announced a major change in its examination schedule on Thursday.
The Commission confirmed it will conduct the Provincial Civil Services (PCS) Preliminary exam according to the traditional pattern, while postponing the highly anticipated Review Officer (RO) and Assistant Review Officer (ARO) exams.
Widespread student protests prompted this decision, with students vocally demanding the old PCS exam format and pushing to reschedule the RO and ARO exams.
UPPSC officials have stated that the shift is in response to feedback from candidates, with the Commission aiming to ensure that all changes are in the best interests of students.
Additionally, the Commission will set up a dedicated committee to monitor the conduct of the RO and ARO exams moving forward.
While many candidates expressed relief at the reinstatement of the PCS exam pattern, others, particularly those preparing for the RO and ARO exams, voiced frustration at the postponement.
Rahul Pandey, an aspirant preparing for the RO exam, expressed skepticism about the announcement, pointing out that the UPPSC’s official website had yet to issue a formal notification.
“We will continue our protest until we receive concrete details. The delay is unfair to us, and we are not ready to trust a verbal assurance,” Pandey said.
UPPSC Decision Sparks ‘Divide & Rule’ Criticism
Some students criticized the UPPSC’s decision as an attempt to divide candidates, with claims that the changes were likely to pacify PCS aspirants while neglecting the concerns of those preparing for the RO and ARO exams.
One student even accused the Commission of using a ‘divide and rule’ strategy, claiming that the move would only serve to push PCS candidates to accept the schedule, leaving others in limbo.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritize the best interests of all students.
“We understand the challenges that aspirants face, and every decision will be made keeping their welfare in mind,” Pathak emphasized.
The issue also garnered political attention, with Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav speaking out during a visit to Prayagraj earlier in the day.
Yadav, while supporting the students’ demands, criticized the ruling BJP government, stating, “How can they preach ‘One Nation, One Election’ when they can’t even manage to conduct exams on a single day?”
Originally scheduled for 7 and 8 December, the PCS Preliminary exam will now proceed as per the previously established format.
The Commission will reschedule the RO and ARO exams, originally set for December 22 and 23, after forming a committee to review the process.
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