New Delhi, March 15 (NationPress) In response to a complaint regarding a contentious question in the Uttar Pradesh Police Sub-Inspector recruitment exam, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Priyank Kanoongo announced that appropriate measures are being taken. The issue revolves around the depiction of the term “Pandit” in a potentially offensive manner within the exam materials.

Kanoongo characterized the use of this term in the question paper as “unacceptable” and emphasized that targeting and ridiculing any group based on caste constitutes a breach of human rights.

He remarked, “In the Uttar Pradesh government’s Police Sub-Inspector recruitment examination, presenting an optional answer that describes the term ‘Pandit’ as an opportunist is condemnable.”

“To identify and demean any community based on caste identity and to hurt their feelings is a violation of their human rights. We are taking action based on this complaint,” Kanoongo stated.

The uproar began when a question in the police Sub-Inspector recruitment exam, which commenced on Saturday, posed the question: “Avsar ke anusaar badal jaane wala” (Who changes according to the situation)? One of the answer choices included the term “Pandit”, leading to widespread criticism.

In light of the situation, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took a firm stance, asserting that any comments undermining the dignity or religious sentiments of any caste, sect, region, or community will not be tolerated.

A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) revealed that Adityanath instructed the heads of all recruitment boards to ensure that “no derogatory remarks are made regarding the dignity or religious sentiments of any individual, caste, sect, or community.”

CM Yogi further mandated that this issue be treated with utmost seriousness and that clear guidelines be established for those involved in drafting question papers. He indicated that paper setters responsible for such errors should face strict penalties, including potential blacklisting for repeat offenders.

Moreover, the Chief Minister directed that this requirement be included as a key clause in the Memorandum of Understanding with paper setters to prevent future occurrences.

Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak also voiced his concerns regarding the question, noting that the state government has taken the matter very seriously. In a statement on X, Pathak indicated that instructions had been issued for an immediate investigation and stern action against those accountable, reiterating the state government's commitment to uphold respect, equality, and sensitivity towards all societal segments.