Date: October 21, 2024
Group 1 Exam Protests: Aspirants’ Demands and Future
Why Are Group 1 Exam Aspirants Protesting?
The Telangana State Public Service Commission (TGPSC) Group 1 exam is scheduled for October 21, 2024. However, many aspirants are protesting and demanding a postponement. These protests have escalated, leading to police involvement, including lathi charges. The exam is significant as it is the highest-level civil service test in Telangana. Candidates who pass the exam will hold positions like Deputy Collector and DSP.
The GO 29 Controversy
One of the biggest issues is the introduction of GO 29. This replaced the previous GO 55, which allowed SC/ST/BC candidates to compete in both open and reserved categories based on merit. However, GO 29 forces these candidates to compete only in reserved categories, even if they score high enough for the open category. Many aspirants feel this new policy limits their opportunities unfairly. They argue that this is a violation of their constitutional rights, particularly Articles 15 and 16, which ensure equality.
Additional Concerns of Group 1 Exam Aspirants
Beyond GO 29, there are other concerns:
- Study Materials Issue: Just ten days before the exam, TGPSC declared that Telugu Academy books are not standard. Many aspirants had relied on these books for years, and this sudden change caused confusion.
- Legal Uncertainty: Changes to notifications have left aspirants unsure about the exam’s future. If the court rules against GO 29, the exam may be canceled, and results could be invalidated.
- Violation of Rights: Aspirants believe the new policy violates their fundamental rights. SC, ST, BC, and EWS candidates who qualified under GO 55 may now lose their chance due to GO 29.
- Violence Against Protesters: Protests have turned violent. Aspirants faced physical assault, arrests, and were dragged from study halls onto the streets.
Telangana High Court’s Position
The Telangana High Court has postponed its judgment until November 20, 2024. Legal experts are citing past Supreme Court judgments like the Indra Sawhney case (1992) and the R.K. Sabharwal case (1995). Both rulings emphasized the importance of merit and reservation fairness.
Unanswered Questions
Aspirants are left with many questions:
- What if the court upholds GO 55?
- Will the exam be canceled if GO 29 is ruled unfair?
- Why is there a discrepancy in hall ticket numbers?
As the Supreme Court is set to hear the case soon, the fate of the exam remains uncertain.
Revanth Reddy’s Appeal to Aspirants
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has appealed to aspirants to focus on the exam. He insists that GO 29 is fair and ensures equal opportunity for all. He urged aspirants to download their hall tickets and prepare.
Conclusion: The Uncertain Future of Group 1 Exam
In conclusion, the Group 1 exam’s future is unclear. Aspirants are fighting not only for their exam but also for their fundamental rights. The courts’ decision will determine whether merit and equality will prevail in Telangana’s top civil service exam.