In-service candidates face hurdles as JKAS exams clash with election preparations

Srinagar, March 22: In the wake of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, around 300 to 500 in-service employees of the Jammu and Kashmir Government, who are among the 2,200 candidates set to appear for the JKAS-2024 Mains, find themselves in a bind.
The examination, scheduled for March 26, 27, 28, 29, and April 2 and 3, clashes with the pre-election period, during which the District Election authorities have cancelled all government employees’ leaves.
The decision has sparked a wave of concern among the aspirants, who have been meticulously preparing for the exams, often considered a gateway to prestigious administrative positions within the state bureaucracy.
One aspirant, who wished to remain anonymous, told Rising Kashmir that they have dedicated years to preparing for this moment. “The sudden cancellation of our leaves has put our careers at stake”, he said.
“It’s a dilemma that pits our loyalty to our jobs against our personal ambitions. We are committed to facilitating a smooth electoral process, but we also seek fairness in pursuing our own professional development”, he added.
The candidates have called upon the authorities to establish a mechanism that ensures their participation in the JKAS Mains 2024 is not compromised.
They suggest that either the Election Commission should instruct Heads of Departments and Drawing and Disbursing Officers to grant the necessary leave or that the J&K PSC consider rescheduling the Mains examination.
Another candidate said that Balancing work and exam preparation is challenging enough. “Now, we’re being forced to choose between our duty and our future”.
The issue has prompted the aspirants to seek the intervention of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo.
The candidates hope for a swift resolution that will allow them to fulfill their aspirations without hindering the democratic process.
“We urge the LG Government to address this matter urgently. It’s not just about the exams; it’s about our right to advance in our careers,” stated another aspirant, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
“We call upon the authorities to act swiftly and compassionately. The future of many dedicated public servants hangs in the balance, and we trust that a just and equitable solution will be found”, he added.