KPSC prelims examination 

Exam held under tight security across 32 centres in Mysuru

Mysuru: Of the 14,874 candidates registered for the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) preliminary examination for 319 Gazetted Probationers posts, 9,255 appeared for the morning session, while 5,620 remained absent. The examination was held at 32 centres across Mysuru district this morning. 

The examination was conducted under tight security, with Police personnel deployed at all centres to prevent malpractice and ensure smooth conduct. 

In Mysuru city, the examination was held at Maharaja’s PU College, Teresian College, Basudeva Somani College, Maharani’s Junior College, Maharani’s Commerce and Arts College and Maharani’s Science College, among other institutions. 

Candidates were thoroughly checked at the entrances. A facial recognition app was used to verify their identity. They were also asked to remove their shoes, slippers and jewellery before entering the examination halls. 

No unauthorised person was allowed inside the examination centre premises and even authorised personnel underwent security checks. Door Frame Metal Detectors (DFMDs) and Hand-Held Metal Detectors (HHMDs) were used to check candidates for electronic gadgets and other prohibited items. 

Candidates, dressed in the prescribed attire, began arriving at the centres as early as 8.30 am. The reporting deadline was 9.30 am and those who arrived after the stipulated time were not allowed inside. 

Paper 1, comprising General Studies and Humanities, was held from 10 am to noon, while Paper 2, covering State-related General Studies, Science & Technology and Mental Ability, was held from 2 pm to 4 pm. Each paper carried 100 questions for 200 marks. 

OMR sheets transported under tight security 

The Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets were transported to the examination centres along eight different routes under the escort of armed Police personnel. 

Prohibitory orders were imposed within a 200-metre radius of the examination centres. Fast food outlets, photocopy shops and canteens in the vicinity were closed as part of the security arrangements. 

Police personnel were deployed around the centres, with vehicle movement and parking restricted in the area. Parents and relatives who accompanied candidates had to wait outside the restricted zones.