Pune: The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has postponed the Maharashtra State Civil Services Combined Preliminary Examination originally scheduled for August 25.

The new date for the exam will be announced at a later time, MPSC officials confirmed. This move comes in response to growing pressure from students who had been protesting against the exam schedule.

During a meeting held on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the decision was made to defer the Maharashtra State Civil Services Combined Preliminary Examination 2024, initially set for Sunday, August 25, 2024. The meeting took place at 10:00 AM.

In response to increasing pressure from students, the commission decided to take this significant step. This decision has been welcomed by the protesting students, who feel their movement has achieved its goal.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed gratitude towards the MPSC through a tweet, stating, "Yesterday, I requested the MPSC Chairman. I am extremely thankful to the Chairman and all members of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission for making a decision in favor of the students."

The students had intensified their protests, which received support from political leaders. The increased pressure from the opposition led the government to take positive steps. Meanwhile, some students have arrived at the protest site with fireworks and juice, signaling a potential end to the demonstration.

NCP leader Sharad Pawar had tweeted on Wednesday late night that he would join the students in protests if the MPSC delays its decision making on Thursday (August 22). NCP leaders Supriya Sule, Rohit Pawar, Prashant Jagtap had also met the protesting students to extend their support.