Why are students protesting in Karnataka's Dharwad for police recruitment age limits?
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Synopsis
In Dharwad, thousands of students rallied to demand a raised age limit for police recruitment and the swift filling of vacant positions. This protest highlights a growing frustration with the government's inaction on a longstanding issue that affects countless aspiring police officers. Will their voices lead to change?
Key Takeaways
- Thousands of students protested in Dharwad for police recruitment age limit increases.
- The protest caused traffic disruptions in major roads.
- Demonstrators demand immediate action from the government.
- Current age limits for police recruitment are 25 years for general and 27 for reserved categories.
- Comparison with other states shows Karnataka has one of the lowest age limits.
Dharwad, Sep 25 (NationPress) In a significant display of unity, thousands of students gathered at Jubilee Circle in Karnataka's Dharwad, voicing their demand for an increase in the age limit for police recruitment and the swift filling of vacant positions across various government departments.
The protest led to the blockage of roads for over 30 minutes, causing considerable disruption for drivers and commuters alike.
Demonstrators claimed that numerous posts, including those for Police Sub-Inspectors and other roles in different sectors, have remained unfilled for an extended period.
Under the guidance of student organizations, participants urged the Congress-led state government to issue recruitment notifications promptly.
As the protest escalated, law enforcement faced challenges in managing the crowd, with Hubballi-Dharwad Police Commissioner N. Shashikumar visiting the site to engage with the students.
Due to the prolonged demonstration, significant traffic congestion was reported on major roads in Dharwad for several hours.
There is a persistent call from candidates and various groups for the Karnataka government to revise the age limit for police recruitment. A procession advocating for updated limits of 30 years for general candidates and 33 years for SC/ST candidates took place in Mysuru on September 11, 2025.
Currently, the age limit stands at 25 for general candidates and 27 for those in reserved categories. Despite support from politicians, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, no official measures have been taken to amend the existing criteria.
For years, aspirants have sought an increase in the age limit for police constable recruitment in Karnataka, yet successive administrations have not addressed this concern, leading to widespread frustration.
Compared to other states, Karnataka maintains one of the lowest age limits for police constable recruitment, with most states allowing general candidates up to 28-33 years, and SC/ST and OBC candidates up to 32-38 years.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the persistent efforts of students advocating for fair recruitment practices. The demand for an increased age limit reflects broader concerns about equitable opportunities in law enforcement. This protest serves as a reminder of the ongoing dialogue about youth engagement and government accountability.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current age limit for police recruitment in Karnataka?
The current age limit is 25 years for general candidates and 27 years for reserved categories.
Why are students protesting in Dharwad?
Students are protesting to demand an increase in the age limit for police recruitment and to expedite the filling of vacant posts in various departments.
What support have politicians shown for this cause?
Politicians, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, have previously expressed support for revising the age limit but no official action has been taken.
How does Karnataka's age limit compare to other states?
Karnataka has one of the lowest age limits, while most other states allow general candidates up to 28-33 years and reserved categories up to 32-38 years.
What impact did the protest have on traffic in Dharwad?
The protest caused significant traffic congestion on major roads in Dharwad for several hours.
