UPSC aspirants challenge 27 prelims questions over ambiguity, factual errors

Aspirants appearing for the Union Public Service Commission's preliminary examination have raised concerns over multiple questions they claim contain ambiguous language or incorrect answers. Two separate petitions have been filed before the Central Administrative Tribunal challenging the validity of 27 questions from the test.

Among the disputed questions are items related to Zero FIR procedures under criminal law, agricultural practices during the Rigvedic period, and regulations governing Grand Slam tournaments. The candidates contend that several questions lack clarity in their framing, potentially misleading test-takers despite sound subject knowledge.

The petitions argue that the ambiguities and alleged factual errors in the official answer key have disadvantaged candidates who may have selected technically correct responses that differed from the commission's designated answers. The challengers have sought a review of the evaluation methodology for these specific questions.

The UPSC has not yet responded to the petitions. The matter is under consideration by the tribunal, which typically examines such grievances in competitive examinations to determine whether questions warrant correction or if answer keys require revision.

This development reflects ongoing scrutiny of standardised examination processes in India, with candidates increasingly challenging test administrators when they perceive errors or inconsistencies in question design or answer verification.