TPSC Answer Key Controversy: Allegations of Suppressing Errors Instead of Correcting Them Raise Serious Concerns

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, April 28, 2026

A major controversy has erupted in Tripura over alleged errors in the Excise Sub-Inspector recruitment examination conducted by the Tripura Public Service Commission (TPSC), with accusations now surfacing that the TPSC is attempting to suppress the issue instead of addressing it transparently.

The matter has drawn sharp criticism from Ramchandraghat MLA Ranjit Debbarma, who on April 27, 2026, formally wrote to the Chairman of TPSC demanding immediate corrective steps. In his letter, the MLA expressed serious concern that despite organized and evident errors in both the question paper and the Provisional Answer Key, the Commission has not taken steps to rectify them. Instead, he alleged that efforts are being made to downplay and effectively bury the issue.

The controversy relates to the General Studies (Series-B) examination held on February 22, 2026. According to the complaint, multiple questions contained mistakes, specifically question numbers 22, 28, and 39, while the provisional answer key reportedly provided incorrect answers for questions 23, 26, 27, 36, 57, and 83. These discrepancies, candidates argue, could significantly affect merit rankings and ultimately deprive deserving aspirants of the job.

Aspirants who raised objections claim they received little support from the Commission. Instead of acknowledging the errors or initiating a transparent review, candidates allege they were advised by officials to seek remedy through the courts. This response has further intensified frustration among unemployed youth across the state.

Adding another layer to the controversy, MLA Debbarma highlighted the steep rise in fees associated with the recruitment process. He alleged that interview fees have increased nearly threefold compared to earlier levels. Furthermore, candidates are required to pay Rs.100 per question to challenge answer keys, and high fees are also charged for answer sheet review and result re-evaluation. According to the MLA, this financial burden discourages many economically weaker candidates from seeking justice.

In his communication, Debbarma placed several key demands before TPSC. He urged the Commission to award grace marks for disputed questions to ensure fairness. He also called for the immediate withdrawal of the per-question challenge fee, particularly considering the socio-economic conditions of candidates, including those from SC and ST communities.

Additionally, the MLA demanded accountability, seeking action against officials responsible for the errors. He also insisted that all fees collected from candidates for answer challenges should be refunded, as the mistakes originated from the Commission itself.

The recruitment drive aims to fill 39 permanent posts of Excise Sub-Inspector under the Finance Department. The issue gained wider public attention after being reported in local media, further amplifying pressure on the Commission.

The situation has now become a test of credibility for the Tripura Public Service Commission. With growing public scrutiny and political intervention, candidates are hoping for swift and fair action. Whether the Commission acknowledges the errors and restores confidence in the recruitment process remains to be seen.

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