New Delhi, March 15 – National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member, Priyank Kanoongo, on Sunday said that action is being initiated following a complaint regarding a controversial question in the Uttar Pradesh Police Sub-Inspector recruitment examination, which allegedly portrayed the word "Pandit" in a derogatory context.
In a post on X, Kanoongo termed the use of the word in the question paper as "condemnable" and said that identifying and insulting any group based on caste constitutes a violation of human rights.
"Giving an optional answer in the Uttar Pradesh government's Police Sub-Inspector recruitment examination, which portrays the word 'Pandit' as an opportunist, is condemnable," he said.
"Identifying and insulting any group based on their caste identity, and hurting their sentiments, is a violation of their human rights. Based on the complaint, we are taking action," Kanoongo added.
The controversy erupted after a question in the police Sub-Inspector recruitment examination, which began on Saturday in the state, asked: "Who changes according to the situation?" One of the options given in the question paper was the word "Pandit", drawing objections from several quarters.
Amid the row, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath adopted a strict stance and said that any remarks affecting the dignity or religious sentiments of any caste, sect, region, or community would not be tolerated.
According to a statement issued by the CMO, the Chief Minister directed the chairpersons of all recruitment boards to ensure that "no undignified remarks are made concerning the dignity or religious sentiments of any individual, caste, sect, or community".
CM Yogi further instructed that the matter be taken seriously and that clear directives be issued to all individuals involved in preparing question papers. He said that paper setters responsible for such lapses should face strict consequences, including blacklisting if they are found to be habitual offenders.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to include this condition as an essential clause in the Memorandum of Understanding signed with paper setters so that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak had also objected to the question and said the state government had taken serious note of the matter. In a post on X, Pathak said that instructions had been issued for an immediate investigation and strict action against those found responsible, reiterating that the state government remains committed to maintaining respect, equality, and sensitivity towards all sections of society.