The UPSC Civil Services Exam (Mains) is all set to begin on January 7, 2022. However, the aspirants want the Union Public Service Commission to postpone the test in view of the present rise in Covid-19 cases across the country.
The UPSC aspirants have been demanding postponement of the Mains exam stating that many candidates will have to travel from different cities to exam centres, making them vulnerable to the virus.
"12% occupancy in Mumbai, and the wave is just starting. Similar situation in other cities too. Better to put off non-essential things for some time. #upscmains may be postponed a little," wrote one Twitter user.
"Recent surges in covid cases r a matter of concern Upsc mains is 10 days process. have to travel to major centres like Delhi &Mumbai, find accommodation &have to arrange for food, travel back & forth By d time we finish d exam, most of us will be sick," wrote another user.
"While schools are being closed, UPSC's decision to conduct #upscmains can result in super-spreader event, resulting in ruined careers of thousands of aspirants," said a Twitterati.
"Students aren't guinea pigs to be tested on new variant strength. Please consider postponing UPSC mains,on a realistic scale commuting for over 10 days and staying in hotels of state capitals will expose most of the candidates to the virus," rued another user.
The UPSC Mains exam has been scheduled for January 7, 8, 9, 15, and 16. As per the result of the exam, comprising nine papers, candidates will be called for personal interview.