JKSSB Blacklists Merittrac Services Pvt. Ltd. for Examination Irregularities

The Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) has taken a strong step to uphold the integrity of its examination processes. In a recent development, the Board has blacklisted Merittrac Services Pvt. Ltd., a Bangalore-based agency, for failing to ensure the secure and confidential conduct of Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) based written examinations.

The irregularities came to light during the examinations for various posts, including Accounts Assistant (Finance), Junior Engineer (Civil), and Sub Inspector (Police), held in March 2022. Certain irregularities were reported in the conduct of these examinations, leading to their cancellation by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir.

The matter was further investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), resulting in the Agency being named as one of the accused in the FIRs. The Board, after careful consideration, initiated punitive action against Merittrac Pvt. Ltd. for its failure to maintain 100% secrecy and security of the examination process.

The agency was afforded an opportunity to respond, but its reply was deemed unsatisfactory by the Board. Consequently, the decision to blacklist Merittrac Services Pvt. Ltd. was made. The agency is now barred from conducting any examinations in the Union Territory of J&K for a period of two years. This period could be extended by an additional year if the Agency is convicted in the ongoing CBI investigation.

This move by the JKSSB highlights its commitment to fairness, transparency, and the highest standards of examination conduct. The Board's actions serve as a reminder that the sanctity of examinations is of paramount importance, and any compromise will not be tolerated.

By taking a firm stance against irregularities, the JKSSB aims to restore trust in its examination processes and ensure a level playing field for all candidates.(JKSA)

Check Official Notification