SSC Exam Controversy: Students Protest Across India Over Mismanagement and Technical Failures

Thousands of candidates appearing for the Staff Selection Commission’s Selection Post Phase 13 examination have faced widespread disruptions, triggering nationwide protests.

The examination, conducted between July 24 and August 1, 2025, was marred by severe logistical issues, technical breakdowns, and allegations of mismanagement, leading to significant anger and frustration among aspirants.

Issues Faced by Aspirants

From day one, candidates reported extensive technical problems, including server crashes, computer malfunctions, and biometric verification issues. Many examination centres were inadequately equipped, lacking basic facilities such as proper seating and ventilation. Additionally, thousands of candidates found themselves assigned exam centres located hundreds of kilometers away from their residences, causing major inconvenience and financial hardship.

Exam cancellations without prior notice at several locations added fuel to the crisis. Centres in states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Delhi faced sudden cancellations, leaving aspirants confused and uncertain about their future.

Controversy Surrounding SSC’s New Exam Vendor

The selection of Eduquity Career Technologies as the vendor responsible for managing the examination process has been subject to intense scrutiny. Candidates and educators have criticized the SSC’s decision to assign exam management responsibilities to Eduquity, pointing out the company’s limited experience in handling examinations of such scale. Previous allegations against Eduquity related to exam irregularities have also resurfaced, raising doubts about its credibility and capability.

Initially, some officials had suggested sabotage by the former vendor, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). However, those accusations were later withdrawn after no credible evidence was found, prompting apologies from officials who made the claims.

Nationwide Protests Intensify

In response to the chaotic exam administration, affected aspirants organized large-scale demonstrations across the country. The protests reached a climax on July 31 when thousands of students gathered at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and outside the SSC’s headquarters at the CGO Complex. Supported by prominent educators like Neetu Singh, the protestors demanded accountability and immediate reforms from SSC.

The demonstrations turned confrontational, with allegations of excessive force used by police authorities to disperse crowds. Several students reported injuries and detentions during these protests, drawing condemnation from student bodies and opposition parties.

Social media was flooded with outrage as hashtags such as #SSCMisManagement and #SSCVendorFailure dominated online discussions, amplifying the issue nationwide.

What Students and Educators Demand

The protesting students have put forth precise demands: a comprehensive and independent inquiry into the exam mismanagement, removal of the current exam vendor, compensation for affected students, and reforms to prevent such incidents from being repeated. Additionally, candidates affected by cancellations seek clear timelines for exam rescheduling and assurances of improved infrastructure and management for future exams.

SSC’s Response and Current Situation

Despite mounting pressure, SSC has yet to announce a comprehensive plan or officially address the core concerns of its students. The commission has issued general advisories acknowledging specific disruptions but remains vague on accountability measures or the status of Eduquity as the exam vendor.

Protests continue across various cities, reflecting deep-seated mistrust and concern among students preparing for upcoming examinations, such as the SSC CGL 2025. Candidates fear that unless immediate actions and reforms are implemented, similar problems could recur, impacting millions of aspirants.

Quick Facts on the SSC Exam Issue

As the situation evolves, students remain firm in their demands for transparency, accountability, and fundamental reforms within the Staff Selection Commission.

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