MPSC Secretary targeted by activists over exam irregularities

Activists from the Sambhaji Brigade smeared black powder on the face of Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) Secretary Mahendra Harpalkar at his office in Navi Mumbai on Friday. The protesters entered the secretary's cabin under the pretext of submitting documents and a book before carrying out the act.

The protest was directed at alleged irregularities and paper leaks involving 17 examinations, including the drug inspector exams. The Sambhaji Brigade has demanded the immediate resignation of both the MPSC secretary and chairman, warning of further actions if their demands are not met.

Navi Mumbai police have taken three activists into custody and charged them with assault and trespass. In response to widespread student protests and 'morchas' regarding exam integrity, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the government is not interested in hiding any information and has established a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the irregularities.