UPPSC protests enter day 4 as students break barricades demanding changes in exam schedule

Students in Uttar Pradesh have been protesting for four days, demanding that UPPSC exams be held in a single shift. They argue that multiple shifts create disparities, as exam difficulty can vary between shifts, giving some students an advantage. This change, they feel, unfairly affects their performance, leading to calls for a return to the previous single-shift format to ensure equal conditions for all test-takers. (Photo credit: TNN)

Prayagraj DCP Abhishek Bharti reported that non-students, described as anti-social elements, are allegedly provoking and joining the protests, leading to disorder. He stated that these individuals have criminal backgrounds and are responsible for inciting violence, including the vandalisation of public property. Police have already arrested two people involved in such activities and are continuing to identify others suspected of escalating the protests. (Photo credit: TNN)

Students allege that police have used force, including lathicharge, to break up gatherings, even targeting students with disabilities. Protestors claim that police have threatened them with detention and tried to prevent group formations. They argue that such measures are unjust and only deepen their grievances, as they are merely seeking to voice their concerns over the exam structure. (Photo credit: TNN)

Despite police intervention, the protest has persisted and grown, with students gathering outside the UPPSC office daily since Monday. The student crowd continues to increase, with participants bringing supplies and showing determination to sustain their demonstration. This ongoing protest highlights the strong demand among students for a fairer and more consistent examination process. (Photo credit: TNN)

Protestors are united in their demand to restore the UPPSC’s former exam format of a single shift. They argue that a single-shift exam reduces bias, allowing equal assessment conditions for all aspirants. With high stakes and complex syllabuses, they believe this consistency is crucial for fair competition, as multiple shifts may introduce unforeseen advantages or disadvantages. (Photo credit: Agencies)

The protest has triggered a political response, with Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticising the state government’s handling of the situation. He accused the government of prioritising aggressive measures over job creation, saying it’s indicative of deeper issues within BJP policies. His statement added momentum to the protest, linking it with wider discontent over unemployment and government priorities. (Photo credit: TNN)

Officials have urged students to protest peacefully and lawfully, promising to convey their demands to relevant authorities. DCP Bharti stated that as long as students follow constitutional methods, their voices will be heard. This call aims to prevent further unrest, ensuring that the protest remains focused on reform rather than escalating into violence or further police action. (Photo credit: TNN)

Following incidents of property damage, including broken barricades and destroyed boards, the police have registered FIRs against 12 individuals associated with the protest. The FIRs mark an attempt by law enforcement to control the unrest and discourage further destructive behavior, while reinforcing that disruptive actions will lead to legal consequences. (Photo credit: TNN)

Protestors continue to gather outside the UPPSC office, chanting slogans and pressing for exam reforms. The atmosphere remains charged, with a strong turnout daily and increased presence of UP police and Rapid Action Force personnel to manage the crowd. The students' resolve to maintain their demands underscores a growing sense of frustration over perceived government neglect of their needs. (Photo credit: Agencies)

Deputy CM Keshav Maurya has advocated for a quick solution to the students' grievances, emphasising that youth should focus on exam preparation rather than protests. He advised officials to address students' demands promptly to avoid further disruption and assure students that the government is willing to negotiate to avoid compromising their futures. (Photo credit: Agencies)