Maharashtra CM Proposes Judicial Inquiry into MPSC Amid Protests

In response to escalating protests by competitive exam aspirants across Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has taken steps to address allegations of paper leaks and irregularities involving the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC). The unrest, particularly pronounced in Pune, has seen students demanding the resignation of MPSC chairman Vivek Bhimanwar, citing serious concerns over examination integrity.

The protests have been ongoing for several days, with students expressing dissatisfaction not only with the leadership of Bhimanwar but also with the overall examination process. Earlier, Fadnavis dismissed MPSC secretary Mahendra Harpalkar, yet the students have remained adamant that the chairman must also be removed. To facilitate a thorough investigation, Fadnavis has recommended that Maharashtra Governor Vishnu Dev Varma establish a committee led by a retired High Court judge to probe the actions of current and former MPSC officials under Article 317 of the Constitution.

This committee is tasked with examining the conduct of both past and present MPSC chairpersons and members, including Bhimanwar, and is required to deliver its final report within three months. The government emphasized that the MPSC is a statutory body, and any disciplinary action against its chairman must adhere to established legal protocols, making the committee's findings pivotal for any potential future actions.

Students have raised additional issues regarding the examination format, questioning the reliance on multiple-choice questions as opposed to descriptive formats, and calling for greater accountability within the administrative framework. Support for the protesters has come from various political figures, including NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar, who has been actively participating in the protests and has threatened a Pune bandh if their demands are not met promptly.

The unrest has not been limited to Pune, as similar protests have emerged in other cities throughout Maharashtra. Allegations of malpractices have intensified, particularly following a recent incident involving a leaked question paper for the Drug Inspector examination, which was reportedly sold on social media shortly before the exam. In light of these controversies, the Maharashtra government has also initiated a separate committee to propose reforms in the competitive examination process, led by Additional Chief Secretary V. Radha. Amidst these developments, Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad has publicly criticized the government, claiming to possess evidence of corruption within the MPSC and calling for the commission's dissolution.