Supreme Court Declines Plea to Postpone CA Exams Amid Lok Sabha Elections

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, presiding over the bench alongside Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Mishra, asserted that the exam dates do not clash with the election schedule, thereby deeming it unnecessary for the court's interference.

In a significant development, the Supreme Court today declined to intervene in a plea seeking the postponement of the upcoming Chartered Accountancy (CA) examinations in light of the concurrent Lok Sabha elections.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, presiding over the bench alongside Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Mishra, asserted that the exam dates do not clash with the election schedule, thereby deeming it unnecessary for the court's interference. While delivering the judgment, Chief Justice observed: "scheduling of exams pertains to policy decisions. But weighing the importance of right to vote we have examined the proposition of candidates who shall be appearing for exams and would also need to vote. 591 centres are there and no exams on polling dates. At this stage when 4lakh plus students have enrolled any relief at this stage would result in grave prejudice," reported Bar&Bench.

The PIL, filed by CA students, had urged for rescheduling the exams to enable students to participate in the democratic process without compromising their academic obligations. However, the bench emphasized that this matter falls within the realm of policy and does not warrant judicial intervention.

During the hearing, the counsel representing the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) informed the court that extensive preparations have been made for the exams, with over 4,36,000 students already enrolled across 390 centers nationwide. It was further noted that measures had been taken to accommodate candidates who raised concerns about their exam centers conflicting with election dates.

The decision comes amidst mounting debates surrounding students' rights to both education and civic engagement. Despite the dismissal of similar pleas in the past, CA students continue to advocate for a balance between academic fairness and democratic participation.

With the exams slated to begin on May 2nd, the Supreme Court's ruling holds significant implications for the academic community, affecting over 4,36,000 students nationwide. As the debate persists, students remain vigilant, seeking recourse through various channels, including appeals to the Prime Minister's Office.

The verdict marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse on the intersection of education and democracy, underscoring the challenges faced by students in navigating their constitutional rights amidst academic responsibilities.

Read more:

• Supreme Court to Hear CA Exams Postponement PIL on April 29, Amidst Lok Sabha Elections Clash
• CA Students Voice Travel Challenges Amidst Exam Clash with Lok Sabha Elections
• ICAI Members Support CA Students' Demand for Exam Postponement Amidst Elections