Why Did Thousands Attend the JKAS Competitive Exam in J&K Amid Controversies?
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Synopsis
On December 7, the JKAS exam took place in Jammu and Kashmir despite significant controversies surrounding flight cancellations and age relaxation. Candidates gathered to participate, while political leaders urged quick resolutions to ongoing issues affecting aspirants' eligibility. This situation raises questions about the integrity of the examination process in the region.
Key Takeaways
- JKAS exam conducted despite controversies.
- Concerns over flight cancellations affecting candidates.
- Age relaxation issues remain unresolved.
- Political leaders demand swift resolutions.
- Thousands of aspirants face uncertainty.
Srinagar/Jammu, Dec 7 (NationPress) Numerous candidates gathered on Sunday to take the JKAS examination administered by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission, amidst ongoing disputes regarding flight cancellations and age relaxation. Despite a plea from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for a postponement due to significant air service disruptions and unresolved age relaxation matters, the commission proceeded with the civil services exam.
The examination commenced at precisely 10 a.m. across various designated centers in Srinagar and Jammu. The ruling National Conference (NC) asserted that the file related to age relaxation was still with the Lieutenant Governor, while the Lok Bhawan clarified that there was no pending file concerning the JKAS exam’s conduct.
On December 2, the L-G acknowledged receipt of the age relaxation file and returned it the same day with inquiries. He questioned how logistics could be arranged retroactively as the public service commission had previously scheduled the exam for December 7 and issued the initial advertisement well in advance.
The L-G expressed via social media that he had returned the file promptly with queries regarding the feasibility of conducting the examination on the set date if the upper age limit was to be relaxed, but noted that he received no follow-up from the government.
The JKPSC had released an advertisement for the exam on August 22, with the examination set for December 7. The commission initially established a maximum age limit of 32 years for open merit candidates, 34 years for reserved or in-service candidates, and 35 years for individuals with disabilities.
However, the government requested an increase in the upper age limit to 35 years for open merit candidates, 37 years for reserved or in-service candidates, and 38 years for candidates with disabilities.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, along with CPI(M) leader M.Y. Tarigami and others, urged both the L-G and CM to swiftly resolve the age relaxation concerns. The J&K Students Association also appealed to the L-G for intervention to assist the thousands of aspirants facing uncertainty regarding their eligibility for the exam.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the complexity surrounding the JKAS examination in Jammu and Kashmir. The decision to proceed with the exam despite significant logistical challenges and unresolved age relaxation issues raises important questions about fairness and accessibility in civil services. Engaging with the concerns of candidates and political figures alike is essential in addressing these pressing issues.
NationPress
07/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the JKAS exam?
The JKAS exam is a competitive examination conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission for recruitment into the Jammu and Kashmir civil services.
Why was there controversy surrounding the JKAS exam?
The controversy arose due to ongoing flight cancellations and unresolved age relaxation issues for candidates, prompting calls for the exam to be postponed.
What are the age limits for JKAS exam candidates?
The maximum age limits are 32 years for open merit candidates, 34 years for reserved or in-service candidates, and 35 years for physically challenged individuals.
Who requested the age relaxation?
The government sought to increase the upper age limits to 35 years for open merit candidates, 37 years for reserved or in-service candidates, and 38 years for physically challenged candidates.
What did former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti say?
Mehbooba Mufti and other leaders urged the L-G and CM to resolve the age relaxation issue swiftly to alleviate uncertainty for aspirants.
