Deputy CM Maurya Calls for Quick Resolution Amid Intensifying UPPSC Student Protests

On Monday, November 11, thousands of UPPSC aspirants gathered in Prayagraj, protesting the Commission's controversial exam scheduling. The students are demanding that the PCS Prelims and RO/ARO exams be conducted on a single day in a single shift.

Amid growing protests against the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission's (UPPSC) decision to conduct the Provincial Civil Service (PCS) Prelims and Review Officer/Assistant Review Officer (RO/ARO) exams on different dates, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has called for a swift and sensitive resolution. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Maurya emphasized the importance of addressing the students' concerns to ensure fair and transparent examinations.

“The concerns of the students regarding more than one day examination in UP PCS exam, not making private institutions centers, and the standardization process are serious and important,” Maurya stated. He reiterated the students’ demand for fair exams, highlighting the need to respect their hard work and secure their future.

Government’s Commitment to Fair Recruitment

Maurya underscored the BJP government's commitment to a transparent recruitment process under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's leadership. “Since 2017, we have set an example of a fair recruitment process by taking strict action against recruitment mafias,” he said, adding that nearly 7 lakh youth have received appointment letters, demonstrating the government's dedication.

He urged officials to listen to the students' demands promptly, ensuring that “the precious time of the students is not spent in agitation but in their preparation.” He also emphasized the importance of resolving pending court cases to prevent uncertainty in students' futures.

Protests Escalate in Prayagraj

On Monday, November 11, thousands of UPPSC aspirants gathered in Prayagraj, protesting the Commission's controversial exam scheduling. The students are demanding that the PCS Prelims and RO/ARO exams be conducted on a single day in a single shift, arguing that multiple shifts could lead to an unfair normalization process.

Tensions heightened when police stopped students from organizing a sit-in at the UPPSC office, forcing the protest to spill onto a nearby intersection. The confrontation led to clashes, with police resorting to lathi charges to disperse the crowd. The chaos resulted in a stampede, affecting many students, including women candidates.

UPPSC’s Defense of Exam Schedule

The UPPSC has defended its decision, citing logistical issues and a shortage of examination centers. The Commission has clarified that the exams, set for December 7, 8, 22, and 23, are screening tests and will not influence final merit rankings. Despite this, students remain unconvinced and are determined to continue protesting until their demands are met. The situation has sparked widespread attention on social media, with hashtags like #UPPSC_ROARO_OneShift trending, amplifying the students' call for change.