Candidates puzzled after PSC changes exam timings to 7 am

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Public Service Commission’s callous experiments with the examination timing invited the ire of candidates on Thursday.

From September onwards, PSC has decided to conduct exams at 7 am. These timing changes come at a time when candidates have already expressed their dissent over the existing 7:15 am exam timing. These exams are attended by a large swathe of candidates from all nooks and corners of the state, and it is pretty safe to assume that not all candidates will be able to make it to the centres on time. Candidates who rely on public transport, including KSRTC, will face difficulties during the suggested early morning hours. Bus services to rural areas start after 6 am. Even if the candidate boards the bus, the exam centres may require further travel from the dropping spot, making it nearly impossible for candidates to meet the time target.

33,880 candidates are appearing in the Overseer/Draftsman exam to be held on the 23rd of this month, 41,176 in the Statistical Assistant exam to be held on the 31st, and 74,528 in the driver exam in various/forest departments. Apart from this, there are other exams for more than fifteen posts.

PSC reasoned that the new decision was an attempt not to disrupt the working of schools on weekdays. However, candidates are still pondering why PSC is not choosing Sundays for the exams.