Police Disperse Group 1 Services Aspirants Protesting Exam Schedule in Hyderabad

Aspirants for Group 1 services protested on Friday, demanding a delay in the Mains exam scheduled from October 21 to 27. The demonstration took place at Ashok Nagar, a key area for coaching centres in the city. Police dispersed the protesters and detained 30 individuals as a preventive measure. Concerns were raised about the exam schedule and the influence of certain Government Orders on recruitment and reservation.

Meanwhile, opposition parties BJP and BRS criticised the Congress government for the police action against the demonstrators. The BRS questioned whether this treatment of women protesters reflects the respect given to women under Indiramma Rajyam, referring to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's welfare rule. BJP leader and Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, announced his intention to visit Ashok Nagar to meet with the aspirants.

Political Reactions and Support

Bandi Sanjay Kumar expressed his support for the aspirants by stating on X, "Moved by the lathi charge against Group1 job aspirants, I will be going to Ashok Nagar to meet them as a BJP Karyakartha." His visit aims to show solidarity with those affected by the police action. The incident has sparked political reactions, highlighting tensions between different parties over handling such protests.

In an effort to address their concerns, some candidates met with B Mahesh Kumar Goud, president of the ruling Congress in Telangana, on Thursday. Others approached BRS working president K T Rama Rao seeking intervention. These meetings indicate the aspirants' determination to have their voices heard regarding the exam schedule and related issues.

Government's Stance on Exam Schedule

Telangana Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari assured that all necessary arrangements for the exam have been completed. Despite protests, the government appears firm on proceeding with the scheduled dates. This stance has not deterred aspirants from continuing their demand for postponement due to perceived inadequacies in preparation time and other concerns.

On Thursday, several aspirants also gathered at a park in Gandhi Nagar, holding placards urging authorities to "reschedule Group-1 exams - save Group 1 aspirants." This additional protest underscores their persistent demand for a change in exam dates. The situation remains tense as both sides hold firm positions regarding the upcoming exams.

The ongoing protests reflect broader concerns about fairness and transparency in recruitment processes. Aspirants are particularly worried about how recent Government Orders might affect reservations and opportunities within civil services. As tensions rise, stakeholders continue to seek resolutions that balance administrative requirements with candidates' needs.