Delhi High Court to Hear CA Students' Challenge Against ICAI Exam Dates Amidst General Election

CA students from 16 states and one Union Territory which includes disabled students as well, moves Delhi High Court against the CA exams

A group of Chartered Accountancy (CA) students hailing from 16 states and one Union Territory, inclusive of disabled students, have taken a decisive step by moving to the Delhi High Court. Their petition targets the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for scheduling exams during the imminent General Election 2024.

Several students have been requesting to reschedule it. Advocate Anubha Srivastava Sahay who has filed the petition on behalf of the students speaking exclusively with Shiksha.com said: “Several students were requesting to reschedule the upcoming exam going to be conducted during elections as many would not be able to vote which will be violation of fundamental right, right to equality. Every citizen has a right to vote. Earlier also CA Exams were postponed due to elections why not this year.”

The students' concerns primarily revolve around the clash between their examination schedule, slated for May 2 to 17, and their democratic right to participate in the 18th Lok Sabha General Election. Advocate Anubha Srivastava Sahay, representing the students, emphasized the violation of the fundamental right to equality, highlighting that every citizen has the right to vote.

As the exam dates draw nearer, a palpable sense of apprehension permeates the CA aspirant community. The looming clash between exam dates and the democratic duty to vote has triggered a wave of apprehension, with many calling for the rescheduling of exams.

Despite the escalating concerns, ICAI has maintained a conspicuous silence on the matter, leaving candidates in a state of uncertainty. The logistical challenges of traveling to hometowns to cast ballots just before exams have been deemed impractical by many aspiring CAs.

In response to the outcry, candidates have sought recourse with the Election Commission of India (ECI), urging ICAI to reconsider the exam schedule. However, while ICAI has announced partial rescheduling, it has failed to assuage the anxieties of many students.

Studente demand Postpone CA Exams

Social media platforms have become arenas for disgruntled aspirants, with hashtags like #PostponeCAExams gaining momentum. Students are appealing to prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to intervene and ensure a fair exam schedule.

The issue has taken on political dimensions, with allegations of intentional interference with election outcomes. Critics argue that the current measures are inadequate, particularly for students from remote areas.

Amidst mounting pressure, the High Court is set to examine the merits of the petition, signaling potential significant implications for CA students and broader discussions on educational governance and democratic participation in India.

As the debate intensifies, stakeholders advocate for a balanced approach that upholds the integrity of the examination process while safeguarding the democratic rights of students. Whether the exams will be postponed remains uncertain, but the calls for fairness and accessibility continue to reverberate nationwide.