Full Breakdown
Maharashtra Forms High-Level Panel to Probe MPSC Paper-Leak Allegations; Chairman Sent on Leave
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Development
On October 12 2026, Maharashtra announced a five-member inquiry committee to investigate alleged question-paper leaks in the MPSC examinations. The panel is chaired by former Bombay High Court judge Dilip Bhosale and includes IPS officer Laxmi Gautam, former IAS officer Ganesh Patil, retired judge P. D. Naik, with IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe—Commissioner of the State Food and Drug Administration—appointed as secretary. The same day, MPSC chairman Vivek Bhimanwar went on compulsory leave, and aspirants ended their 10-day protest at the S M Joshi Bridge in Pune.
Background & Context
The agitation began after candidates for the Drug-Inspector screening exam held on March 22 2026 claimed they received the paper in advance on March 20. The commission cancelled the recruitment process after receiving email complaints between July 22-26 2026 and a preliminary inquiry. Protesters demanded Bhimanwar’s resignation and reforms such as offline examinations.
Data & Statistics
- July 29 2025: MPSC advertised the Drug-Inspector post.
- March 22 2026: Screening exam conducted offline at six divisional headquarters.
- June 12 2026: Results declared; 506 candidates eligible for interview.
- July 1-22 2026: Interviews held for 488 candidates.
- July 22-26 2026: 506 complaints filed alleging pre-exam paper access.
Official Statements & Responses
- Shivendraraje Bhosale, state minister, said the committee will address aspirants’ demands, including recruitment of 70,000 posts over three years.
- Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister, called the panel’s formation a “positive stance” and noted technical adjustments to the commission are being prepared.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We hope that the committee will have the freedom to work properly,” — Rohit Pawar
Criticism & Opposition
BJP’s Navnath Ban questioned the protest’s motives, claiming it had taken a “political turn” despite the chief minister’s acceptance of demands.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Chairman’s status: Some outlets reported the government had not decided on Bhimanwar’s removal, while others said he would remain on leave without formal dismissal.
- Protest end date: Livemint cites October 11 2026 as the night the agitation ended; other sources mark October 12 2026 as the date it was called off.
- Inquiry timeline: The committee is expected to submit its report within 60 days, though no precise deadline has been confirmed.
What’s Next
The panel must deliver its findings within 60 days of formation. The state government has pledged to act on any recommendations, including possible reforms to MPSC recruitment and background checks for future commission leadership. No further scheduled actions have been announced.