The Maharashtra Civil Services Gazetted Combined Preliminary Exam 2024, conducted by the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) on December 1, has sparked controversy over one of its questions. Known as one of the toughest exams in the country, MPSC tests students’ knowledge, decision-making skills, and awareness. However, a particular question about alcohol has drawn criticism from students and the educational community.
The Question in Focus
The question presented a scenario:
“Your friends like to drink alcohol and they are influencing you to drink. What will you do if you do not want to go with them and want to keep yourself away from their alcohol consumption habits?”
Four options were provided for this question:
- I will tell my friends that my parents have forbidden me to drink alcohol.
- I will refuse to drink alcohol.
- I will drink only because my friends are drinking.
- I will refuse and lie to them that I have a liver disease.
Many students have found this question and its options objectionable, arguing that such a scenario is irrelevant to an exam that selects future civil servants. They also found the options confusing and inappropriate.
Critics have questioned the inclusion of such topics in a competitive exam of this level, where the focus should be on assessing candidates’ knowledge, analytical skills, and ability to handle administrative challenges.
Several people from the academic and social sectors have raised concerns over the necessity of such questions. “These exams shape the next generation of government officials. It is important that the questions align with the professional requirements and responsibilities of these roles,” said one educator.
Students and educational groups have appealed to the MPSC to review the appropriateness of such questions. They believe that the focus should remain on knowledge, governance, and public policy. Calls have also been made for stricter guidelines to ensure that future exams avoid such controversies.
The incident has reignited discussions about the design and purpose of competitive exam question papers, with many demanding reforms to align with ethical and professional standards.
