For the second time in September, Assam will be implementing a temporary shutdown of mobile internet services, impacting the state’s connectivity for eight hours on Sunday. This measure aims to prevent any potential malpractices during the written examination for Grade III government posts. The suspension of mobile internet, data, and Wi-Fi services will be enforced from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, according to an official release issued on Saturday.
The decision to temporarily disable mobile internet connectivity comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the integrity of the recruitment process. The State Level Recruitment Commission (SLRC) for Class-III Posts has expressed concerns about the possibility of unscrupulous individuals exploiting mobile applications to gain an unfair advantage during the examination. The commission emphasizes the importance of maintaining a free, fair, and transparent recruitment process, ensuring a level playing field for all aspiring candidates.
This temporary shutdown of mobile internet services follows a similar measure implemented on September 15th, during the first phase of the written examination for Grade III posts. During that period, mobile internet services were suspended for three-and-a-half hours. The upcoming examination is scheduled in two halves, with the first session running from 9 am to 12 noon, and the second session from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm. A total of 7,34,080 candidates are eligible to participate in the examination, which will be conducted across the state.
The SLRC has highlighted concerns about the potential for individuals to engage in unethical practices, such as spreading rumors through social media, attempting to disrupt the examination process, or even selling fake question papers. To mitigate these risks, the decision to suspend mobile internet services was made to eliminate any potential loopholes that could compromise the integrity of the recruitment process.
In addition to the internet suspension, the SLRC has taken other measures to ensure the smooth and transparent conduct of the examination. Admit cards with instructions for the candidates have already been issued, and additional or revised guidelines have been notified. Candidates are required to report to the examination centers at least one-and-a-half hours prior to the start time, allowing for thorough security checks and frisking. A standard operating procedure (SOP) has been established to ensure a standardized approach to security measures.
The implementation of the SOP follows allegations of improper frisking during the first phase of the examination, with several women candidates claiming that female security personnel inappropriately touched their private parts. To address these concerns, candidates have been advised to wear half-sleeve attire and slippers instead of shoes for quicker and more efficient frisking.
Furthermore, to facilitate the movement of candidates, the Northeast Frontier Railway has announced the operation of six pairs of special examination trains. The railway services aim to assist candidates in reaching their respective examination centers.
The upcoming recruitment process for Grade III positions has garnered significant interest, with over 18.50 lakh candidates applying for the various classes of Grade III posts. Additionally, approximately 13.70 lakh candidates have submitted applications for different Grade IV posts. The written examinations for Grade IV positions are scheduled for separate dates.
The decision to suspend mobile internet services during the examination has been met with mixed reactions. While some individuals express concerns about the inconvenience caused by the temporary shutdown, others acknowledge the importance of maintaining the integrity of the recruitment process and preventing potential malpractices. The SLRC remains committed to ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process for all aspiring candidates.
