On Sunday, a written examination for filling Grade IV posts within the Assam government was successfully conducted, although it came with the suspension of mobile internet services statewide for over seven hours. Mobile internet was disabled from 8:30 AM to 4 PM, marking the third such instance in the past two months. The examination took place in two shifts and proceeded without incident, according to official sources.
Chief Minister’s Announcement
Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, stated that the written tests under the Assam Direct Recruitment Examination (ADRE) for posts announced last year have now concluded. He expressed the intention to publish the results by February. Following the announcement of the written examination results, viva and skill tests will be conducted, with appointment letters slated for distribution on May 10, aligning with the anniversary of his administration.
Purpose of Internet Suspension
The order to suspend mobile internet services was issued to ensure a free, fair, and transparent examination process while preventing potential law and order issues that could impact public safety. While mobile data and Wi-Fi services were restricted, voice calls and broadband connectivity through fixed telephone lines remained operational.
Any violations of the internet suspension order are subject to penalties under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, as well as relevant provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.
Examination Details
The competitive examination was organized by the State Level Recruitment Commission (SLRC) and took place in 28 districts without any reports of disturbances. A total of 5,023 posts are being filled, and approximately 827,130 candidates were eligible for the recruitment examination for HSLC level posts in the first shift, which ran from 9 AM to 11:30 AM across 1,484 centres.
In the second shift, held from 1:30 PM to 4 PM, 552,002 candidates registered for posts requiring a minimum qualification of Class 8, with examinations conducted at 808 centres.
Security Measures
Tight security arrangements were established at all examination centres. To assist candidates, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) operated five pairs of examination special trains, ensuring efficient transport to and from the test venues.
This written examination follows earlier tests for Grade III posts held on September 15 and 29, during which mobile internet services were also suspended. Approximately 18.50 lakh candidates applied for various Grade III posts, while 13.70 lakh candidates registered for the Grade IV examination.
Conclusion
The Assam government continues to prioritize the integrity of its recruitment processes by implementing stringent measures, including the suspension of internet services, to uphold the principles of fair testing.
