The RAS 2024 exam, scheduled for June 17-18, faces student protests demanding postponement due to the incomplete selection process for RAS 2023. Student opposition is intensifying.
Rajasthan: The Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) 2024 examination, slated for June 17th and 18th, has sparked widespread discontent among students. Students are staging a continuous protest at the main gate of Rajasthan University. They argue that holding the RAS 2024 exam before the completion of the RAS 2023 selection process is not only unfair but will also negatively impact thousands of students.
Incomplete 2023 Process, Yet 2024 Exam Announced
While the RAS 2023 exam notification was released in July 2023, its selection process remains unfinished. The subsequent announcement of the RAS 2024 notification and exam dates has caused confusion and stress among students. Protesting students claim that candidates selected in 2023 will also appear for the 2024 exam, leading to duplication and wasted seats.
A protesting student, Manswini, stated, "We've abandoned our studies to sit on the streets. This isn't just about seat duplication; it questions the RPSC's functioning. We face the same mistakes every year."
Appeals to Ministers and Leaders Unheeded
Students have symbolically displayed pictures of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and even Lord Rama at the protest site, signifying their plea extends beyond human authorities, seeking divine intervention. Several ministers—including Deputy CM Diya Kumari, Premchand Bairawa, and BJP state president Madan Rathore—have also urged a postponement of the exam date. However, no official announcement has been made yet.
Ex-Servicemen to Participate in RAS Exam
A significant number of retired army personnel are participating in the Rajasthan Administrative Service exam. Rajveer Singh, holding a banner for 'Operation Sindur,' explained that 400 ex-servicemen applied for RAS 2024, but their leaves have been cancelled due to 'Operation Sindur.' He added, "We're receiving letters from duty stating we won't be able to take the exam. We've now announced a hunger strike."
RPSC Already Enmeshed in Controversies
The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) is already embroiled in several controversies. Its role in numerous paper leak cases has been questioned. The commission has lacked a permanent chairman for the past year. Two of its members are in jail, and several of its four members are nearing retirement. This situation makes it difficult for students to expect transparency and accountability from the commission.
School Lecturer Recruitment Exam Also in Jeopardy
Besides RAS, the First Grade School Lecturer exam in Rajasthan is also facing controversy. Scheduled for June 23rd to July 3rd, it clashes with the UGC-NET exam and ongoing university MA examinations in June. The challenge of preparing for three major exams simultaneously is a major concern for students.
"RPSC is Acting Arbitrarily"
Unemployed leader Manoj Meena stated, "The RPSC is acting arbitrarily. There's no transparency. Students are neither communicated with nor are their problems addressed. If the exam date isn't changed, thousands of students will be affected."
5.85 Lakh Applicants for 3350 Posts
Despite 585,000 applicants for 3350 First Grade School Lecturer posts, student demands remain unaddressed.
