Paper Leak Forces Exam Cancellation
In a significant move, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Uttar Pradesh has announced the cancellation of the UP Police Constable Recruitment Examination-2023 due to reports of paper leaks. This decision, declared by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, comes on the sixth day of civil service aspirants’ agitation against the alleged question paper leaks.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated, “There can be no compromise with the sanctity of examinations. Those who toy with the hard work of youngsters will not be spared under any circumstances. Strictest action is certain to be taken against such unruly elements.”
Protests and FIR Registration
Lucknow police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) in the Uttar Pradesh police constable recruitment examination paper leak case, as hundreds of candidates protested across the state, demanding a re-examination. Aspirants argue that the integrity of the exam was compromised after a question paper went viral on social media just hours before the exam began.
Massive Participation and Re-Exam Demand
Over 48 lakh aspirants, including about 16 lakh women, took part in the UP Police Recruitment Exam 2024 held on February 17 and 18. Conducted at 2,385 centers across all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh, the exam aimed to fill 60,244 positions in the UP police force. Many candidates have been urging the state government to conduct a re-examination, claiming that the question paper was circulating on various social media platforms before the exam started.
Statewide Protests
Civil service aspirants have been staging protests across Uttar Pradesh against the alleged paper leak in the RO/ARO preliminary exam since Monday (February 19). On Friday, protesters gathered at the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission in Prayagraj, demanding the cancellation of the exam and the removal of UPPSC Chairman Sanjay Srinet, alleging irregularities in exam center setup.
Government’s Response and Internal Committee
The Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board has formed an internal committee to investigate all allegations of paper leaks and viral question papers and answer sheets on social media. The board’s chairperson, Renuka Mishra, emphasized the focus on complete transparency and merit. The board also sought representations from aspirants who appeared for the exam with relevant proofs by February 23 for further action.
Political Reactions
Opposition leaders, including Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, have criticized the BJP government over the paper leak incidents. They have demanded a CBI inquiry and strict action against those responsible. BJP leader Dr. Arun Kumar has also written to CM Adityanath, urging a re-examination of the exams.
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