UPSC aspirants challenge 27 CSE prelims questions over incorrect answers

27 questions of UPSC civil services examination (CSE) preliminary exam across general studies and aptitude papers have come under scrutiny, with candidates claiming that the answers in the provisional answer key are either incorrect, have no correct answer, or have multiple correct answers. Two groups of UPSC candidates have challenged the questions before the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), and the next hearing is scheduled for October 8.

According to The Hindu report, four candidates have challenged eight questions in one petition, while another group of 63 aspirants has challenged 27 questions, which include those challenged in the first petition.

Aspirants have cited several questions from the CSE prelims exam, including ones on the Grand Slam tennis tournaments, zero FIR procedure under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and at least four questions related to Indian agriculture and well irrigation during the Rigvedic period.

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UPSC CSE: Many missed cutoffs by few marks

Candidates have alleged the disputed answers extend beyond a single question. For those appearing for their final attempt, such an error could take away any further chance to clear the exam. Candidates flagged that many of them missed the cutoff for the CSE mains exam by only a few marks.

In one of the disputed questions about Indian agriculture and well irrigation during the Rigvedic period, there were two statements, and test takers were asked to choose from the supporting statements. However, candidates claimed that the answer they considered correct contradicted the option provided in the CSE prelims provisional answer key.

UPSC CSE preliminary examination was held on May 24, and the provisional answer key was released three days later. More than 13,000 candidates cleared the exam for the next stage. The CSE mains examination was held in August. UPSC CSE selection process has three stages, including preliminary, mains, and interview rounds.