Mobile internet services in Assam will be suspended on October 27 from 8:30 AM to 4 PM for the Class IV government recruitment examination, affecting over 1.3 million candidates across 2,292 centres. This decision, confirmed by Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Tewari, aims to prevent misuse of technology during the exam. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has noted that this approach is being emulated by other states, highlighting its perceived effectiveness in maintaining exam integrity.
Exam Security Measures and Candidate Logistics
The suspension of mobile internet, including WiFi and mobile data services, is enacted under Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act. Tewari stated that the measure is essential to prevent anti-social elements from disrupting the examination process through rumour-mongering via social media. The Assam State School Education Board anticipates a significant turnout, with 827,130 candidates scheduled for the first shift (HSLC level posts) and 552,002 for the second shift (Class VIII level posts), taking place across 28 districts. To facilitate candidates, the Northeast Frontier Railway will operate special trains on that day.
Recent Developments and Context
This marks the third instance of internet suspension in Assam for recruitment exams within two months, following similar measures in September aimed at curbing malpractice. Chief Minister Sarma remarked on the broader implications of these suspensions, asserting that “Jharkhand has learnt from Assam” regarding such security measures. He further noted that while his government faces criticism for these actions, they are necessary for upholding examination standards and preventing cheating.
Questions and Answers
1. Have there been previous suspensions of mobile internet services?
Yes, this is the third instance of mobile internet suspension in Assam within two months due to similar recruitment exams, highlighting ongoing concerns about exam integrity and public safety.
2. Why is Assam suspending mobile internet services?
Mobile internet services are being suspended to ensure a fair examination process for over 1.3 million candidates taking government recruitment exams, aiming to prevent misuse of technology by anti-social elements.
3. When will the suspension occur?
The suspension will take place on October 27, from 8:30 AM to 4 PM, coinciding with the recruitment examinations for Class IV government posts.
4. How many candidates are affected by this decision?
Approximately 1.3 million candidates are expected to participate in the exams—827,130 for HSLC-level posts and 552,002 for Class VIII-level positions—across various centres in Assam.
5. What arrangements are being made for candidates?
The Northeast Frontier Railway will run special trains on October 27 to assist candidates traveling to their examination centres, ensuring they can reach their destinations without delays.
