New Delhi: A question in the Uttar Pradesh Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment exam has triggered a fresh controversy after the word “Pandit” appeared as an answer option in the Hindi section, drawing political objections and prompting the Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board (UPPRPB) to order a probe.
The row comes days after the UPPRPB had issued a clarification over misleading social media claims of caste-based selection in the police recruitment process. The board had said candidates are neither selected nor rejected on the basis of surname or title, and that caste status is verified only through official documents during the verification stage.
The controversy relates to a March 14 exam question that reportedly asked candidates to identify the one-word substitute for a person who changes according to circumstances. The options included “Pandit”, “Avsarvadi”, “Nishkapat” and “Sadachari”.
The inclusion of “Pandit” drew objections from BJP leaders and social media users, who called it inappropriate and offensive, saying the term is used as a mark of respect and is also associated with the Brahmin community.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak termed the question unacceptable and sought action, while Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed recruitment bodies to ensure no exam content hurts the dignity or sentiments of any individual, caste, sect or community.
The UPPRPB said responsibility will be fixed after the inquiry and action will be taken against those found guilty.
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