The Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) has taken the serious step of cancelling the Junior Engineer (Electrical) recruitment examination conducted on August 24, 2025. The decision comes amid widespread allegations of a paper leak, which triggered outrage among candidates, political parties, and the general public, raising concerns about transparency and fairness in recruitment processes.
Key Highlights Of The Cancellation And Paper Leak Controversy
The OMR-based written test for the Junior Engineer (Electrical) posts in the Power Development Department was scheduled across 35 venues in Jammu and Srinagar on August 24.
Due to weather-related disruptions, exam timings were shifted from 11:00 AM to 12:00 noon. The exam was conducted successfully at 34 venues, but one centre faced challenges linked to the alleged leak.
Videos circulated on social media showing candidates outside a centre at Kothi Bagh Higher Secondary School apparently using leaked question papers to answer, fueling anger and distrust.
Protests erupted outside exam centres demanding cancellation and strict action against those responsible.
The JKSSB officially announced the cancellation of the exam and committed to conducting it afresh, with fresh dates to be announced soon.
Political parties, including the PDP and Peoples’ Conference, criticized the ruling National Conference (NC) government for failing to ensure a fair recruitment system, calling the leak a blow to the youth.
Leaders stressed that repeated exam scandals have damaged the aspirations of thousands of youth in Jammu and Kashmir, where employment opportunities are already scarce.
Calls for an independent inquiry and stronger security measures have intensified within civil society and political circles.
The JKSSB emphasized its commitment to transparency and restoring confidence among the candidates.
Impact On Aspirants And Public Sentiment
The cancellation has caused disappointment among many hardworking aspirants who had prepared extensively. However, the broader sentiment widely supports the cancellation as necessary to maintain the integrity of the recruitment process.
Job seekers fear that such incidents not only delay their career opportunities but also erode trust in government institutions. Many have demanded accountability at all levels to prevent future recurrences.
The Political Response And Governance Questions
The controversy has stirred a political storm, with opposition parties pointing to systemic mismanagement by the JKSSB and administration. Criticism is directed at the existing governance setup, urging reforms to safeguard recruitment transparency.
The ruling party faces pressure to ensure improved examination protocols and regain youth support during a crucial time for governance and development in the region.
Next Steps And Examination Rescheduling
JKSSB officials have promised a fresh exam schedule, with notifications expected soon. The board is under pressure to implement robust security measures including digital surveillance and checks at examination centres.
Candidates and coaching groups await official communications to better plan and prepare for the rescheduled tests.
Conclusion
The cancellation of JKSSB’s Junior Engineer recruitment exam amid paper leak allegations highlights critical challenges in maintaining transparency and fairness in recruitment exams, especially in sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir. The incident has not only paused the recruitment process but also reignited calls for structural reforms to restore trust among aspirants and the public.
Moving forward, ensuring the credibility of such exams through effective security and accountability will be key to safeguarding the futures of many Indian youth aspiring for government jobs.
Sources: Hindustan Times, Kashmir Reader, The Indian Express, New Indian Express, KNS Kashmir
