Satish Waghole Takes Charge as MPSC Chairperson Amid Exam Controversies
The Maharashtra government appoints Satish Waghole as additional chairperson of MPSC during ongoing inquiries into examination irregularities.
Satish Waghole appointed as additional chairperson of MPSC effective October 16, 2026.
Incumbent chairperson Vivek Bhimanwar is on leave amid allegations of exam paper leaks.
Protests by MPSC aspirants demand accountability and increased recruitment opportunities.
On October 16, 2026, the Maharashtra government appointed Satish Baban Waghole as the additional chairperson of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) during the leave of current chairperson Vivek Bhimanwar. This decision comes in light of serious allegations of examination paper leaks and irregularities that have sparked significant unrest among civil services aspirants.
The appointment of Waghole follows a notification issued by the General Administration Department of Maharashtra, which highlights the growing dissatisfaction among MPSC candidates regarding the commission's operations. Bhimanwar announced his leave as the inquiry into these allegations is underway, aiming to address the concerns raised by the aspirants regarding the integrity of the examination process.
Recent protests in Pune, lasting ten days, have seen MPSC aspirants demanding immediate action against the alleged irregularities and calling for Bhimanwar's resignation. The protesters expressed their frustration over the examination procedures and insisted on reforms to ensure fairness in the recruitment process. Their demands also included the withdrawal of legal cases against protest representatives and an increase in recruitment opportunities within state government departments.
In response to the unrest, the Maharashtra government has established a committee led by senior IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe to investigate the allegations of irregularities, including potential paper leaks. This inquiry will scrutinize the tenures of both current and former chairpersons and members of the MPSC, assessing their roles in the ongoing issues. The committee's findings are expected to play a crucial role in restoring trust among candidates preparing for competitive exams.
As the inquiry progresses, Waghole will oversee the MPSC's operations. Aspirants continue to push for reforms, including the recruitment of 70,000 positions over the next three years and an increase in vacancies for the upcoming Group C examination scheduled for January. The ongoing situation emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability within the MPSC to regain the confidence of aspiring candidates.
