Maharashtra MPSC Row Intensifies as Student Protests Grow, Rohit Pawar Targets Commission Chief

The political controversy surrounding the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has intensified as competitive examination aspirants continue to demand greater transparency and accountability in the recruitment process.

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar has stepped up his criticism of MPSC Chairman Vivek Bhimanwar. During a 34-page presentation in Pune, Pawar raised allegations concerning Bhimanwar’s earlier tenure as Maharashtra’s transport commissioner and referred to issues involving high-security registration plates, vehicle interceptors and GPRS kits. Bhimanwar has rejected the allegations and said they are politically motivated.

The controversy gained momentum after the MPSC cancelled the Drug Inspector, Group-B recruitment process in August following a reported question-paper leak. The development triggered protests by aspirants, who have demanded accountability and stronger safeguards for competitive examinations.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has sought to address the concerns of students. He told representatives of MPSC aspirants that investigations would not be limited to the recent controversy and that complaints relating to several previous examinations would also be examined. The government has also indicated that interviews for some recruitment processes could remain on hold until investigations are completed.

The issue has increasingly become part of Maharashtra’s Political War, with opposition leaders using the examination controversy to question the government’s handling of recruitment and administrative accountability. At the same time, the government has maintained that allegations should be examined through proper investigations and evidence.

The controversy has also highlighted the growing political importance of student and youth concerns in Maharashtra. Thousands of aspirants depend on competitive examinations for government employment, and repeated delays, cancellations or allegations of irregularities can affect their preparation and career plans.

The ruling side has indicated that corrective measures are being considered. A committee headed by V. Radha has been tasked with looking into concerns related to examinations, while government representatives have said that improving communication with aspirants is also necessary.

For the opposition, the MPSC controversy provides another opportunity to question the functioning of the state administration ahead of future electoral battles. Leaders including Rohit Pawar have demanded stronger accountability, while the government is attempting to reassure students through investigations and proposed reforms.