In a significant move to ensure inclusivity and accessibility in competitive examinations, the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) has approved the provision of a scribe, also known as an amanuensis, for a candidate suffering from Writer's Cramp disease. This decision pertains specifically to the review officer (RO) and assistant review officer (ARO) main examination for the year 2023, which is scheduled to be conducted on February 2 and 3 in Lucknow.
Court-Ordered Support for Candidate Gopal Ji
The approval for the scribe was taken in compliance with an order from the Allahabad High Court, ensuring necessary support for the candidate, identified as Gopal Ji, a resident of Jhansi. This step highlights the commission's commitment to adhering to judicial directives and providing equitable opportunities for all aspirants, regardless of health challenges.
Exam Details and Post Vacancies
The RO and ARO main examination for 2023 is a crucial recruitment drive, aiming to fill a total of 411 posts. The exam will be held over two days in Lucknow, marking a key event in the state's public service recruitment calendar.
Overcoming Regulatory Gaps
Interestingly, the Uttar Pradesh government's notification issued on December 4, 2019, does not specifically list Writer's Cramp as a qualifying condition for such assistance. However, UPPSC granted the facility under the court's directions, demonstrating flexibility in addressing unique cases that may not be covered by existing regulations.
Qualifications and Requirements for the Scribe
The commission has specified clear guidelines regarding the scribe's educational qualifications. The scribe must have an educational qualification that is at least two years lower but not over three years lower than the minimum qualification required to appear in the exam. This ensures that the scribe is adequately knowledgeable without having an unfair advantage.
Logistical and Procedural Guidelines
According to UPPSC deputy secretary Virendra Mani Tripathi, the candidate is required to bring his own scribe, and no travel allowance will be provided to the scribe by the commission. Additionally, the candidate is granted 20 minutes per hour of extra time during the exam to accommodate the use of a scribe.
Notification and Documentation Requirements
The candidate must inform the centre superintendent about the scribe and the requirement for additional time either a day before or on the day of the examination. For identification and verification purposes, the candidate must carry a valid identity card and two photographs. The scribe, on the other hand, is required to bring:
- ID proof
- A copy of the Aadhaar card
- Address proof
- Self-attested copies of educational qualification certificates
This comprehensive approach ensures that the process is transparent and adheres to all necessary protocols, safeguarding the integrity of the examination while supporting the candidate's needs.
