The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has landed in fresh controversy after NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar alleged that the Drug Inspector recruitment examination conducted earlier this year was marred by a question paper leak involving a multi-lakh cash-for-paper racket.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Pawar claimed that the question paper for the March 22, 2026 examination was leaked on March 20, two days before the test, and circulated through WhatsApp in PDF format along with the answer key.
According to him, nearly 90 out of the 100 questions that appeared in the examination were identical to those in the leaked document, raising serious questions over the credibility of the recruitment process. Pawar further alleged that the leaked paper was sold to candidates for Rs 12 lakh, with an advance payment of Rs 5 lakh allegedly collected before the examination.
He claimed that the alleged operation was linked to Kautilya Academy in Nandurbar, where candidates and their families were reportedly offered the paper in exchange for money. Demanding an independent investigation, Pawar urged the government to identify the masterminds behind the alleged leak and take strict action.
The MLA also alleged that several aspirants had lodged complaints with the MPSC in July 2026, informing the commission about the suspected leak. However, he claimed that despite the complaints and supporting evidence, no meaningful action had been taken.
MPSC Denies Leak Claims
The allegations, however, have been rejected by the MPSC. Citing a report by Maharashtra Times, the commission said the recruitment process was conducted in a transparent manner and that every complaint received would be examined.
The commission also warned that if the allegations are found to be baseless or aimed at damaging its reputation, it would initiate legal proceedings against those responsible.
Allegations Come Amid Heightened Exam Scrutiny
The controversy comes at a time when the integrity of competitive examinations is under the national spotlight following the NEET-UG paper leak case, which triggered widespread protests and demands for greater accountability.
With concerns over examination security already running high, the fresh allegations against the MPSC are likely to intensify calls for stricter safeguards and greater transparency in the recruitment process.
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