Bengaluru: The Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) conducted the preliminary examination for the recruitment of 319 Gazetted Probationers posts across the state on Saturday, November 15, amid unprecedented security arrangements.The examination assumes significance as it is being held against the backdrop of previous allegations of irregularities and recruitment scams involving the KPSC. To ensure transparency and prevent malpractice, elaborate security measures have been introduced at all examination centres.
The examination is being conducted at 345 centres across 15 districts. A total of 1,44,312 candidates, including 91,238 men and 53,074 women, are expected to appear for the examination. The recruitment drive aims to fill 319 vacancies, comprising 117 Group-A and 202 Group-B posts.The examination is being held in Bengaluru, Tumakuru, Mysuru, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Ballari, Bagalkot, Vijayapura, Dharwad, Belagavi, Uttara Kannada, Shivamogga, Dakshina Kannada, Hassan and Davanagere districts.
Security has been tightened at all examination centres, with CCTV cameras installed in every examination hall to monitor candidates’ movements. Mobile signal jammers have also been installed to prevent the use of electronic devices and curb malpractice.For the first time, two invigilators have been appointed to each examination hall, where only 24 candidates are permitted to write the examination.
Candidates were subjected to two levels of security checks before being allowed inside. Officials thoroughly inspected their ears, spectacles, shirt collars, footwear and wristwatches to ensure that no prohibited electronic devices or other materials were carried into the examination halls.Women candidates were permitted to wear only the mangalsutra and toe rings, while other ornaments were prohibited.
At an examination centre in Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, some candidates faced difficulties over the prescribed dress code. A candidate who arrived wearing a full-sleeved shirt at a government degree college examination centre was reportedly denied entry.He later returned after going home with his father and changing his clothes.
In another incident, a candidate reportedly refused to have his shirt cut at the last moment and proceeded to write the examination wearing only a vest. Several candidates who had not properly understood the examination guidelines faced last-minute difficulties.
The first paper, covering General Studies and Humanities, was scheduled from 10 am to 12 noon. The second paper, covering General Studies related to Karnataka, Science and Technology, and Mental Ability, was scheduled from 2 pm to 4 pm.The examination centres closed their gates after the stipulated reporting time. Candidates arriving after 9.50 am for the morning session and 1.50 pm for the afternoon session were not permitted to enter.
The Commission had instructed candidates to reach their examination sub-centres at least two hours before the commencement of the examination.
The preliminary examination consists of two papers, each carrying 200 marks with 100 multiple-choice questions. Each question has four answer options.Candidates must compulsorily fill in the fifth circle on the OMR sheet if they do not wish to answer a question. Failure to do so will attract a penalty of one-fourth of the marks allotted to that question. The same negative marking applies to incorrect answers.
If more than one option is marked for a question, the answer will be treated as incorrect, even if one of the marked options is correct.Candidates must use only blue ballpoint pens to mark their answers. Answer sheets altered using blades, erasers or whiteners will be considered invalid.
Three Copies of OMR SheetsThe Commission has introduced a three-copy OMR answer sheet system. One copy will be given to the candidate, another will be used for evaluation by the KPSC, and the third will be securely preserved in the District Collector’s or KPSC’s strong room.All scanned OMR copies are scheduled to be uploaded to the KPSC website on the same day as the examination.Candidates have also been instructed to preserve their OMR copy until the final selection list is published.
Additional Time for Persons with Disabilities:Eligible candidates with disabilities who qualify for the scribe facility will be provided an additional 20 minutes for every one hour of examination, irrespective of whether they use a scribe.Candidates were also required to carry their hall tickets along with an original identity document such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, voter ID, driving licence or government-issued employee identity card. Candidates with disabilities must produce the relevant disability certificates.
With extensive security arrangements, strict dress-code enforcement and additional monitoring measures in place, the KPSC has sought to ensure that the KAS preliminary examination is conducted fairly and transparently.
