SC declines postponing UPSC prelims 2020

SC refused to entertain the plea seeking postponement of UPSC civil services examination 2020 in view of coronavirus pandemic.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to allow a plea seeking postponement of UPSC civil services examination 2020 in view of coronavirus pandemic after being informed by UPSC that it is not possible to further delay the examination.

Taking into consideration UPSC's affidavit regarding postponement of exams, the top court said UPSC should ensure that separate sitting arrangements for candidates suffering from cough and cold should be made available and all protocols, SOP should be followed.

The apex court also directed UPSC to urge states to make arrangements of proper accommodations for students having the admit cards.

Besides, the top court also asked UPSC to allow students for whom this is the last year to appear for the examinations, to consider them with one more attempt without extending their age limit.

It was contended before the court that as the libraries were shut the students could not prepare which the court refuted by saying that it is not 1950s and the online resources are always available.

It also set aside the argument of inadequate transport facilities saying that it is not substantiated.

For COVID-19 positive patients, the court said that it can not pass general directions on it as the SOP requires them to be in isolation or quarantine.

For advocates highlighting candidates, like frontline COVID warriors, who can not appear in the exam, the court observed that the exam is for 10 lakh people and it can not be customised for individual or area.

UPSC told the top court that it can not postpone the exams any further as it will impact next year prelims as well. It ensured the court to follow all the protocols.

The UPSC civil services examinations 2020 to be held on October 4.