Protests Erupt in Pune Over MPSC Exam Schedule
- Sharad Pawar threatens to join MPSC protest if demands are not met by Maharashtra govt.
- MPSC students in Pune demand postponement of preliminary exams scheduled on August 25.
- Ultimatum given by Sharad Pawar adds pressure on the government to address protest demands.
Hundreds of aspirants for the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) have gathered in Pune to demand the postponement of preliminary exams set for August 25. The protests intensified when six students initiated an indefinite hunger strike on Wednesday, expressing frustration over the government's lack of response to their concerns. Veteran political leader Sharad Pawar has issued an ultimatum to the Mahayuti government, insisting that they address the students' demands by the end of the day or he will join the protest. Pawar emphasized the government's responsibility to prioritize the interests of students, criticizing the current administration for its indifference. He took to social media to voice his support for the protestors, stating that if the government fails to clarify its position, he will stand in solidarity with the students seeking justice. The aspirants argue that the exam date conflicts with the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) exams, which could disadvantage candidates who wish to take both. In addition to the scheduling conflict, the protestors are also voicing their discontent over the MPSC's decision not to hold exams for the agriculture department alongside other departments. While Mahayuti leaders have remained silent on the issue, support has emerged from NCP (SP) leaders Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar, who visited the protest site to express solidarity. Sule pledged to advocate for the students' demands in a meeting with the chief minister, highlighting the financial burden of multiple examination fees.