MPSC Cancels Drug Inspector Recruitment Process Amid Allegations of Exam Malpractice

MUMBAI: In a significant move aimed at preserving the integrity of its selection processes, the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) announced late Tuesday evening that it has officially cancelled the recruitment drive for the post of Drug Inspector (Group-B) under the state’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) department.

The decision follows a detailed preliminary inquiry into reports of malpractice surrounding the screening examination, which was originally conducted on March 22, 2026.

Investigation into Alleged Paper Leak

The controversy began following a flurry of complaints lodged by candidates and public representatives between July 22 and July 26. The petitioners alleged that the sanctity of the examination had been compromised, claiming that specific candidates had gained illicit access to question papers as early as March 20—two days before the exam—via social media and digital platforms.

Acting swiftly on these allegations, the MPSC formally approached the Mumbai Police on July 27, requesting a thorough investigation. A subsequent inquiry conducted by the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) provided the commission with a preliminary report. While the report did not suggest a systemic, widespread paper leak, it did find prima facie evidence that at least one candidate had accessed the question set, thereby gaining an unfair advantage.

In a statement, the MPSC emphasized that the cancellation was a necessary step to uphold the transparency, impartiality, and confidentiality of its recruitment procedures, ensuring that candidates maintain their trust in the commission’s institutional integrity.

Rescheduling the Examination

Despite the setback, the MPSC has assured aspirants that the recruitment process will resume. The commission confirmed that a fresh examination will be scheduled for the Drug Inspector posts.

To mitigate the inconvenience caused to genuine applicants, the MPSC clarified that those who had previously applied for the role will not be required to register again, nor will they be asked to pay any additional examination fees. The revised date for the re-examination is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

A Long Road to Cancellation

The cancellation brings an abrupt end to a lengthy recruitment cycle that had already reached its final stages.

• Recruitment Timeline: The initial notification was issued on July 29, 2025.
• Screening: The offline exam was held on March 22, 2026, across six divisional headquarters in Maharashtra.
• Shortlisting: Results were declared on June 12, with 506 candidates qualifying for the interview phase.
• Interview Stage: Between July 1 and July 22, 488 candidates underwent interviews, with a provisional general merit list of 485 eligible candidates subsequently published.

With this announcement, the entire process has been effectively reset to the screening examination stage. Candidates are advised to keep a close watch on the official MPSC website for updates regarding the new test date.