This is with reference to the news item ‘ACE arrests four for ‘leaking’ PPSC test question paper’ (Jan 3). The arrest of four people allegedly involved in the leakage of question papers of Punjab Public Service Commission’s written test has once again raised questions on the credibility of PPSC, transparency of its examination system and merit-based selection process.

The accused confessed that they had leaked the paper not only for the post of revenue department, but also for the post of lecturers for chemistry and education, etc.

The commission’s last-minute decision to cancel papers due to ‘unavoidable circumstances’ enraged the aspirants. The candidates were fully prepared for the examinations and had reached the centre from different cities in harsh weather, risking their lives during the pandemic, only to find a cancellation notice 30 minutes before the test.

The authorities concerned should consider the difficulties faced by the aspirants due to malpractices adopted by PPSC officials. The government should take strict actions against the commission and its employees involved in bribery. They have not only put merit at stake, but have also tricked the applicants who waited for these jobs for years and years.

Prof Sana Aslam
Gujranwala

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THE Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) recently revealed that the Punjab Public Service Commission’s test paper was leaked and sold by a data entry operator. Four people have been arrested in this connection so far. The PPSC should be held accountable for this incident. It is hard to believe that only four people were involved in this crime. There must be a gang of many more corrupt individuals involved.

An independent investigation should be conducted to trace all the culprits. This scandal has further pushed the unemployed youth into despair and disappointment.

Farhan Ali Kalwar
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, January 21st, 2021