In a startling display of mass absenteeism, a recruitment examination conducted by the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) in Ajmer witnessed a dismal turnout, throwing the entire selection process into question and highlighting a significant waste of administrative resources.
Shockingly Low Turnout at Ajmer Exam Centre
The examination for the post of deputy commandant in the state's Home Guard Department was held on Sunday. Despite a massive pool of 4,221 registered applicants, only a mere 255 candidates actually appeared to take the test. This translates to an abysmal attendance rate of just 6.04 percent, leaving invigilators and officials at nearly empty examination halls.
The flip side of this minimal attendance was a staggering number of absentees. Official data confirms that a whopping 3,966 candidates who had applied for the position failed to show up for the crucial selection test. This exam marked the first such recruitment test conducted by the RPSC in the current calendar year.
RPSC's Warning and the Aftermath of Wasted Effort
Prior to the examination, the RPSC had issued a clear advisory, forewarning ineligible candidates against applying for the post. However, the extreme level of absenteeism suggests that a large number of applicants either did not heed this warning or applied without a serious intent to pursue the position.
An official source within the commission expressed deep concern over the situation, pointing to the unnecessary expenditure and logistical strain caused by the no-shows. "The RPSC has to make extensive arrangements for conducting any examination, which requires considerable resources and expenditure," the source stated. "On Sunday, the commission made full arrangements for all 4,221 candidates, including setting up examination centres and deploying invigilators, but only 255 candidates appeared."
Broader Implications for Recruitment Processes
This incident raises critical questions about the efficiency of public recruitment drives and the responsibility of applicants. The massive gap between applications and actual participation indicates potential flaws that need addressing:
- Resource Drain: Significant public funds and administrative effort were spent on preparing for thousands of candidates who never arrived.
- Process Integrity: Such high absenteeism can distort the competitive landscape and cast doubt on the seriousness of the application pool.
- Need for Scrutiny: The event underscores the potential need for stricter application filters or a nominal fee to ensure only genuine candidates apply, thereby optimizing the commission's resources.
The episode in Ajmer serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by recruitment bodies like the RPSC. It calls for a review of mechanisms to deter non-serious applications and ensure that the valuable time and money of public institutions are not squandered.
