MPSC exam leak allegations spark fresh protests in Maharashtra

Hundreds of candidates preparing for Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) examinations gathered at Kranti Chowk in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Tuesday to voice their concerns over alleged malpractices in recent recruitment tests. The protesters called for a comprehensive inquiry into the issue and demanded the appointment of officers with "untarnished records" to senior positions within the commission.

The demonstrations reflect growing anxiety among civil service aspirants following revelations of irregularities in the MPSC Drug Inspector screening examination held in March. The Mumbai Crime Branch is actively investigating the alleged question paper leak, with seven individuals arrested so far, including a female candidate who had ranked seventh in the examination.

Protesters emphasized their concerns about institutional credibility, with several candidates noting their middle-class backgrounds and the sacrifices their families have made to support their educational aspirations. Supporters of the agitation referenced the credentials of state-level officials known for administrative integrity as examples of the caliber of leadership they believe the commission requires.

The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar demonstration follows a similar march held in Pune on Monday, indicating the geographic spread of discontent among candidates across Maharashtra. The recurring protests underscore growing pressure on the state administration to address systemic concerns within its public service recruitment framework.