The ongoing protest by Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) aspirants at S M Joshi Bridge in Pune has taken a significant turn with the state government proposing a 60-day inquiry into alleged irregularities within the commission. This inquiry will be led by former judge Dilip Bhosale, with senior IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe serving as its secretary. The decision comes after eleven days of protests, where aspirants have voiced their concerns regarding the commission's transparency and accountability, particularly in light of accusations of paper leaks.
Despite this development, the protesters, led by NCP MLA Rohit Pawar, have made it clear that the resignation of MPSC chairman Vivek Bhimanwar remains their primary demand. Pawar asserted that the inquiry alone would not suffice to address the issues at hand, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms and accountability within the commission. The proposed committee will investigate all levels of the MPSC’s functioning, from staff to leadership, and recommend actions if any officials are found guilty of misconduct.
- Inquiry committee composition — Chaired by former judge Bhosale, with members including IPS officer Lakhmi Gautam and retired secretary Ganesh Patil.
- Reforms proposed — The government plans to implement reforms in MPSC functioning and address existing vacancies.
- Recruitment commitments — The government has pledged to complete recruitment for 1,600 posts in the Public Works Department within 15 days.
The government’s draft proposal also includes commitments to establish a regular annual examination calendar, ensuring that recruitment processes are completed within a year. Furthermore, all examinations will be conducted offline, and a single-card system for examinations is in the works. However, Pawar has reiterated the protesters' insistence on accountability, stating that if any commission official is found guilty, appropriate actions must follow.
Additionally, the government has proposed to withdraw cases registered against protesters and cancel notices issued during the agitation. However, despite these assurances, the protest at S M Joshi Bridge continues, highlighting the aspirants' determination to see their demands met. The situation remains fluid as both the government and the protestors navigate the complexities of the inquiry and the broader calls for reform in the MPSC.
