'Institution Hijacked': Rahul Gandhi Urges MPSC Reform
Rahul Gandhi calls for urgent MPSC reforms in Maharashtra, citing paper leaks and student grievances during ongoing protests in Pune.
Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has issued a scathing critique of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC), alleging that the institution responsible for shaping the future of the state's youth has been "hijacked." Speaking on the mounting unrest among students, Gandhi urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to implement immediate reforms and ensure a transparent examination process.
Grievances Raised During 'Chhatron ki Goonj'
The call for reform follows the 'Chhatron ki Goonj' event held in Pune, where students presented a harrowing list of systemic failures. According to Gandhi, the students highlighted several critical issues that have crippled their career prospects and well-being, including:
- Frequent paper leaks undermining exam integrity.
- Stalled recruitment processes leaving candidates in limbo.
- Exorbitant education costs making studies unaffordable.
- Dilapidated hostel conditions and poor quality food.
- Fraudulent activities within the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
"I had urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to reform the MPSC, make the examination process transparent, and listen to these students," Gandhi stated, noting that the lack of government action has led students to launch a Satyagraha in Pune.
Demands for Accountability and Vacancy Filling
The protesting students are not merely asking for administrative tweaks; they are demanding structural accountability. Key demands include the resignation of the current MPSC Chairperson and the appointment of an "honest, competent officer" to lead the commission. Furthermore, aspirants are calling for the immediate filling of over 70,000 vacant government positions.
"These demands are not unreasonable. They require action, not mere assurances," Gandhi emphasized, adding that the Youth Congress and NSUI would fight alongside the students until a permanent solution is reached.
Violence Breaks Out Amid MPSC Protests
The agitation in Pune took a controversial turn on Thursday when a journalist was allegedly assaulted while covering the protest on Shastri Road. The incident has sparked a standoff between the media and protesters.
The Pune Union of Working Journalists has condemned the attack on journalist Nikhil Sukre and has decided to boycott coverage of the agitation until an FIR is registered against those involved. Yogesh Borse, Vice President of the Pune Union of Working Journalists, demanded strict legal action against the culprits.
Political Fallout and Allegations
The violence has also triggered a political firestorm. BJP State Spokesperson Navnath Ban issued a strong condemnation, accusing NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar’s supporters of the assault. Ban stated that Pawar is attempting to shift blame toward the ABVP to cover up the "hooliganism" of his workers and demanded an unconditional apology to the press.
The protest, which saw a significant turnout of students, remains a flashpoint for political tension in Maharashtra as the government faces mounting pressure to address the systemic issues within its competitive examination framework.