Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The ongoing sit-in protest by hundreds of candidates who applied for various reforms of Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (PSC) took a dramatic turn late Wednesday as the talks failed and protest continued.
A 25-minute meeting between five representatives of the candidates and PSC Chairman Dr Rajeshlal Mehra ended in complete failure. The candidates insisted on written assurances for their demands, but MPPSC administration refused, leading to heated exchanges.
During the meeting, chairman accused the candidates of ‘misusing their freedom of expression,’ further straining the already tense discussions. Following the breakdown of talks, the candidates decided to continue their protest. Three candidates have now started an indefinite hunger strike to intensify the agitation.
Night-Long Protest: Determined Spirit Amid Cold
Over 300 candidates, including women, stayed at the PSC headquarters overnight, braving the cold with minimal sleep. Small groups gathered around fires to keep warm or held discussions into the early hours. Protestors also brought bedding, water, and other necessities to sustain their demonstration.
Security has been tightened around the PSC headquarters, with police deployed to manage the situation. Both access routes to the site have been closed, and alternative routes have been provided for vehicles.
Unique Methods of Protest
To keep their spirits high and draw attention to their demands, the candidates organized recitations of Sundar Kand and sang devotional songs throughout the evening. “We will keep such activities going throughout the night to ensure our voices reach the government,” said one of the protestors.
The candidates are protesting for transparency in the recruitment process, demanding reforms such as written assurances on exam evaluation, increased vacancies, and changes to the interview system. The movement has gained momentum, with many vowing not to back down until their demands are met.
As the protest intensifies, all eyes are on the PSC administration and the government to address the growing unrest. With the hunger strike now underway, the situation is becoming increasingly critical.
