Intro: The UP CM issued immediate instructions to the chairpersons of all recruitment boards in the state to ensure that no objectionable or undignified content appears in any exam paper.
Lucknow
The issue surfaced after a question in the Sub-Inspector recruitment examination, conducted for recruitment in the Uttar Pradesh Police, triggered political and social backlash. The examination began on Saturday across various centres in the state.
The controversial question asked candidates, Avsar ke anusaar badal jaane wala (Who changes according to the situation)? Among the multiple-choice options given in the paper was the word Pandit, which drew strong objections from several quarters. Critics alleged that the inclusion of the term in such a context could be interpreted as disrespectful to a particular community.
Following the controversy, the Chief Minister issued immediate instructions to the chairpersons of all recruitment boards in the state to ensure that no objectionable or undignified content appears in any examination paper. In a statement released by the Chief Minister’s Office, Adityanath emphasised that comments or references affecting the dignity or religious sentiments of any individual, caste, sect or community are unacceptable under any circumstances.
He directed officials to treat the matter seriously and ensure that strict guidelines are followed while preparing examination content. The Chief Minister also instructed authorities to issue clear directives to all individuals involved in drafting and vetting question papers for recruitment examinations.
Adityanath further warned that paper setters responsible for such lapses should face strict consequences. He said that if any paper setter is found repeatedly involved in such incidents, they should be blacklisted from future assignments.
To prevent similar controversies in the future, the Chief Minister also ordered officials to include a specific clause in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with paper setters. This clause will hold them accountable for ensuring that question papers do not contain content that could offend social or religious sentiments.
The move is aimed at strengthening oversight in recruitment examinations and ensuring that the process remains fair, respectful and free from controversies.
