Arunachal: Over 1,000 civil service posts remain vacant after 2022 paper leak

Guwahati: Over 1,000 civil service positions in Arunachal Pradesh remain unfilled due to the fallout from a paper leak scandal that plagued the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) in 2022.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu addressed the issue on Thursday while distributing appointment letters to 1,256 youths who successfully cleared the Combined Secondary Level Examination-2023 conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB) last year.

Paper Leak Delays Recruitment:

The 2022 paper leak involved the Assistant Engineer (Civil) recruitment exam held on August 26-27. The incident severely disrupted APPSC's ability to conduct further examinations, leaving over 1,000 crucial posts vacant across various departments.

New Leadership, Renewed Efforts:

Acknowledging the setback, Khandu informed the gathering that a new APPSC chairman and members have been appointed. He emphasized that stringent Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) are being implemented to ensure the integrity of future exams for Group A and B positions.

Encouragement for Aspiring Candidates:

The Chief Minister expressed hope for the Commission's swift action in conducting the pending exams. He advised the newly appointed Group C and D employees to consider appearing for future APPSC exams if eligible, highlighting their existing preparation as an advantage.

Focus on Merit-Based Recruitment:

Khandu reiterated the government's commitment to fair and transparent recruitment practices. He emphasized the creation of the APSSB in 2015 to eliminate the past culture of recommendations and political influence in filling Group C and D positions.