In response to the unrest among candidates for the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) regarding allegations of paper leaks, the state government has taken action by transferring MPSC Secretary Mahendra Harpalkar, fulfilling a significant request from the protestors.

This decision was made shortly after a group of students met with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to express their concerns, specifically calling for the dismissals of both Harpalkar and MPSC Chairman Vivek Bhimanwar. Although the government complied with the request concerning the secretary, Fadnavis clarified that the state does not have the authority to remove the chairman.

“The position of MPSC chairman is constitutionally protected. The state government, along with the governor, lacks the power to remove him. Such a decision is reserved for the President of India, based on the recommendations from the Supreme Court,” Fadnavis stated on Wednesday.

The transfer order for Harpalkar was issued on October 1. Demonstrators had accused both Bhimanwar and Harpalkar of misconduct related to recruitment examinations. Additionally, Fadnavis promised students that there would be a comprehensive recruitment initiative over the next three years to fill positions that become available due to retirements. He indicated that a detailed recruitment schedule, organized by department, would be established within a month. Furthermore, he assured that MPSC exams would be conducted in person and that the government would seek input from student organizations before making any decisions.

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