Pune MPSC protesters say exam delays deepen the cost of preparation

Candidates protesting alleged irregularities in Maharashtra Public Service Commission examinations told The Hindu that postponements are increasing the cost of preparation and accommodation. The report published on October 10 also sets out the police position that the continuing protest is unlawful.

The protest at S.M. Joshi Bridge began on October 1. Rushikesh Dhode estimated an evening crowd of 500 to 700 during the reporter’s visit. The report described seven hunger strikers. Organiser Akshay Kamble wants chairman Vivek Bhimanwar to resign, 70,000 vacancies filled and more affordable examination fees.

Reports of leaked examination papers prompted the protest. The Hindu reported three leaks in 2026 linked to recruitment for 5,707 Group C positions and 109 Group B drug inspector posts. Protesters say cancellations and postponements extend their dependence on money from their families.

Amol, a 24-year-old candidate from Akola, said his monthly expenses had risen from 8,000–9,000 rupees to 11,000–12,000 since moving to Pune in 2022. His meal charges increased from about 2,800 to 3,200 rupees. He stopped paying for classes and now studies independently.

Dhode, 25, the son of a farmer in Latur district, arrived with savings of 80,000 rupees that lasted two years. He said he now earns 4,000 rupees a month working in a clothing shop and cleans a library in exchange for a place to sleep. He sees a regular government salary as a route to financial stability for his family.

Vaishnavi Jadhav of Marathwada said transparent examinations offer farmers’ children a route into public administration. Some participants asked not to be photographed because they feared recognition at a future interview could affect their prospects.

Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said authorities met the demands in the students’ September 24 letter after a September 30 meeting with the chief minister. In his account, representatives postponed the October 2 protest but gathered on October 1. Police refused permission to continue at the bridge and suggested two other venues. Cases have been registered against 15 organisers, which does not establish their guilt.

Abhijeet Dipke, Sanjay Raut and Rohit Pawar have supported the protesters. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis proposed that Governor Jishnu Dev Varma establish a committee led by a retired High Court judge to examine the conduct of former and current MPSC leaders. That proposal differs from protesters’ demand for the chairman’s immediate removal.