Controversy Erupts Over ‘Pandit’ Option in UP SI Recruitment Exam

A Hindi question in the UP Police SI recruitment exam sparked controversy after “Pandit” was listed as an option for an opportunistic person. Political parties protested, the government ordered an investigation, and demands were raised to cancel the question.

Post Published By: Karan Sharma

Updated : 15 March 2026, 4:45 AM IST

UP Police SI Exam Controversy (Image Source: Dynamite News)

New Delhi: A controversy has erupted over a question in the Hindi paper of the Uttar Pradesh Police Sub-Inspector recruitment exam. In a question asking for a one-word substitute for “someone who changes according to circumstances,” one of the options given was “Pandit.” This option sparked outrage, with many saying it hurts the sentiments of a community, reports Dynamite News correspondent.

Political Reaction Intensifies

Leaders from the ruling party also objected to the question. Brajesh Pathak said that any exam question that hurts the dignity of a community is unacceptable. He stated that the government has taken the matter seriously and ordered an immediate investigation.

Demand for Action

BJP state minister Abhijat Mishra wrote a letter to Yogi Adityanath demanding strict action against those responsible for preparing the question paper. Many have also demanded that the controversial question be officially cancelled and corrected.

Opposition Attacks Government

Opposition parties used the issue to criticise the government. Congress spokesperson Anshu Awasthi accused the state government of insulting the Brahmin community and questioned the intention behind including “Pandit” as an option in the exam.

Hindu Mahasabha Also Protests

The Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha also raised objections and demanded an FIR against those responsible for setting the question paper.

What the Question Asked

The question asked candidates to select a single word for the phrase “अवसर के अनुसार बदल जाने वाला” (someone who changes according to opportunity).
Options included:

1. Pandit

2. Opportunist

3. Honest

4. Virtuous

The inclusion of “Pandit” in the options is what led to the controversy.

About the Recruitment Exam

The recruitment exam for Sub-Inspector and equivalent posts began on March 14 and 15 across 75 districts in Uttar Pradesh. The exam is being held for 4,543 posts, with more than 15.7 lakh candidates applying.