Mizoram finds itself tangled in a web of controversy as allegations swirl around the Mizoram Public Service Commission (MPSC) regarding the purported use of correcting fluid in exam papers to manipulate students’ marks. The saga began on March 27, 2024, when the Mizoram apex student body, Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), publicly voiced suspicions about the integrity of the MPSC, suggesting that correcting fluid had been used to alter marks in examination papers.
On April 3, MZP called for the resignation of the MPSC chairman, citing concerns over the commission’s integrity. In response, the MPSC asserted its commitment to its responsibilities under the Indian Constitution, highlighting its rigorous examination process, which involves multiple levels of evaluation and numerous experts.
They emphasised the meticulous process through which examination papers undergo three levels of evaluation. Specifically, they detailed the comprehensive procedures employed during the MCS (combined) 2023 examinations, which involved the collaboration of 213 experts fulfilling diverse roles, such as question setters, moderators, evaluators, and scrutineers.
The MPSC also acknowledged the existence of a writ petition in the Gauhati High Court Aizawl concerning the MCS (combined) 2023 exams, which will address the allegations. However, Mizo Zirlai remained unsatisfied with the MPSC’s response.
On April 10, 2024, Mizo Zirlai reiterated its demand for the resignation of the MPSC chairman, presenting documents purportedly showing the use of correcting fluid in exam papers.
An official from MZP emphasised that while minor allegations against the MPSC had been previously ignored, the gravity of the recent allegations warranted serious attention.
The official accused the MPSC of attempting to conceal the papers and criticised the commission for restricting access to examination materials.
He said the MPSC provided inspection copies without certified copies or the ability to photograph them freely, raising suspicions about the transparency of their actions.
In response to the escalating situation, a high-ranking MPSC official told EastMojo they have no further comments, stating that the matter is ongoing in court.
However, an anonymous observer speculated about potential political motivations behind MZP actions, suggesting that the student body’s demands for the chairman’s resignation may be politically motivated, aiming to replace the current chairman, who was allegedly appointed by the MNF government, with a ZPM-affiliated individual.
MZP Secretary Manga Thomte responded to the political motivation allegation saying, “We never have political leanings, whatever government it is always supports us, whether it is MNF, ZPM or Congress. So from our part, there is no political factor as an influence.”
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